An OPG dental x-ray is a type of panoramic x-ray that provides a wide-view image of the teeth, jaws, and surrounding structures.
This type of x-ray is often used to help diagnose problems with the teeth and jaws, such as tooth decay, impacted teeth, jawbone abnormalities, and tumours. OPG dental x-rays can also be used to plan treatment for certain conditions, such as braces or wisdom tooth removal.
An OPG dental x-ray is usually performed in a dental office or clinic. The person being examined will sit in a chair and bite down on a special device called a film holder. The x-ray machine will be positioned around the head and will take a panoramic image of the teeth, jaws, and surrounding structures. It may take less than 10 minutes.
OPG dental x-rays are generally considered to be safe. People who are pregnant or suspect they may be pregnant might avoid this type of x-ray unless it is absolutely necessary. Additionally, people with certain medical conditions, such as cancer, may be advised to avoid OPG dental x-rays due to the risk of exposure to radiation.
An OPG dental x-ray can help to diagnose a number of problems with the teeth and jaws, including the below.
Tooth decay
Impacted teeth
Jawbone abnormalities
Tumours
An OPG dental x-ray works by taking a panoramic image of the teeth, jaws, and surrounding structures. The x-ray machine is positioned around the head and takes an image that gives a wide view of all the teeth at once. This type of x-ray is often used to help diagnose problems with the teeth and jaws, such as tooth decay, impacted teeth, jawbone abnormalities, and tumours. OPG dental x-rays can also be used to plan treatment for certain conditions, such as braces or wisdom tooth removal.
An OPG might last around 10 minutes. After having an OPG dental x-ray, there is usually no need for any type of special care or treatment.
Most people only need to have an OPG dental x-ray every few years. However, people who are at a higher risk for tooth decay or other problems with their teeth and jaws may need to have this type of x-ray more often. Your dentist will be able to advise you on how often you should have an OPG dental x-ray based on your individual needs.
OPG dental x-rays offer a number of benefits, including the ability to detect problems with the teeth and jaws that may not be visible during a regular dental exam, plan treatment for certain conditions, such as braces or wisdom tooth removal and monitor changes in the teeth and jaws over time.
A regular x-ray is a more focused image of a specific area. For example, a dentist may take a regular x-ray of one particular tooth if they suspect there is a problem. Regular x-rays are not as effective at diagnosing problems with the teeth and jaws as OPG dental x-rays.
Before having an OPG dental x-ray, your dentist will likely ask you about your medical history and whether you have any conditions that may be affected by exposure to radiation. You may also be asked to remove any jewellery or other objects that could get in the way of the x-ray machine. In some cases, you may be asked to wear a lead apron during the procedure to help protect you from exposure to radiation.
During an OPG dental x-ray, you will need to sit still while the x-ray machine moves around your head. The process usually takes less than 10 minutes.
After having an OPG dental x-ray, there is usually no need for any type of special care or treatment. In most cases, people can resume their normal activities immediately.
For more information on medical imaging, take a look at NSW Health.