Anteroposterior Plane

Anteroposterior (forward-backward) or AP plane is aligned with a specific landmark that varies among panoramic machines. In this instance, the AP is aligned between the maxillary lateral incisor and canine contact. (Figure 12) If the patient is missing anterior teeth, the AP light can be aligned with the ala or corner of the nose. Some panoramic machines automatically adjust the AP position for the operator.

Figure 12. Anteroposterior Plane.

Figure 12. Anteroposterior Plane.