Digital OPG & Cephalometry
for Dental Imaging
Digital OPG & Cephalometry for Dental Imaging
What is OPG X-ray in Digital Dental Imaging?
OPG X-ray, also known as an Orthopantomography (or simply OPG), panoramic radiography, or a pantogram is a type of X-ray scan that gives a panoramic or wide view of the lower face. It can display all the teeth on both jaws on one film, including those that have not surfaced or erupted yet, such as wisdom teeth. It also offers a view of the jawbone and the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which connects the jaw to the rest of the skull.
What does a Dental OPG X-ray consist of and involve?
The procedure for dental panoramic radiography consists of the patient resting their chin on a small shelf in front of the X-ray machine and biting softly on a sterile mouthpiece. This will keep the head and mouth steady while the images are taken.
The panoramic X-ray machine consists of a rotating arm with the X-ray source at one end and the film mechanism (which captures the image) at the opposite extremity. The arm rotates around the patient’s head to capture the wide view of their mouth and jaw.
The procedure is performed very quickly. As with any X-ray, the patient feels no discomfort during the procedure and can continue with their daily routine afterwards.
Preparation for Orthopantomography (OPG)
As with all X-rays, you will be asked to remove any jewellery, glasses, or other metal objects before the scan, as they can affect the images.
