First, you will be situated in the center of the unit where the technician will carefully position and secure your head. The unit can be adjusted to accommodate a patient standing or sitting in a wheelchair. A bite-blocker is then placed in your mouth to ensure proper alignment of the teeth. Correct placement of the teeth and head is important for obtaining a clear image.

You will be asked to remain very still while the rotating arm travels in a semicircle around the perimeter of your head and the images are being taken. This can typically last between 12 to 20 seconds.

A panoramic x-ray exam is painless, fast and easy to perform. It may be recommended over intraoral x-rays for patients that have a sensitive gag reflex.