What is the difference between a panoramic X-ray and a CT scan?

A panoramic X-ray is a basic examination that shows all the teeth and the jawbones in a single 2D image, while a CT is a detailed examination that shows bone width and height and the position of the nerve canal in 3D. Their uses differ: 1) a panoramic for regular check-ups and an overall look at cavities and gum condition, 2) a CT for planning implant placement, to assess bone volume and nerve position, and 3) a CT for extracting impacted wisdom teeth and for complex root canal treatment. The radiation dose for both is at the low level managed for medical imaging, and whether health insurance applies depends on the purpose of the imaging.