Orthopantomogram, widely known as OPG is a dedicated type of dental examination that provides a complete analysis of the mouth, including jaws, teeth, and the surrounding structures.
Healthcare providers use this imaging device to capture images of the entire mouth to detect various dental or oral conditions. The images provided by OPG include a wide-angle view of the jawbone, teeth, and temporomandibular joints.
What is an Orthopantomogram?
An orthopantomogram is a type of dental X-ray that provides a wide-angle or panoramic view of the lower face. It helps doctors to analyze all the teeth and jaw bones in one frame. This also provides a view of the jawbone and temporomandibular joints, which connect the jaw with the rest of the skull.
What happens in an Orthopantomogram?
An Orthopantomogram is similar to an X-ray because it uses low-level radiation to capture images of the inside of the mouth. In this procedure, you need to place your chin on a shelf, which is in front of the OPG machine. The technician may ask you to bite on a soft sterile mouthpiece, which helps to keep the mouth steady. This procedure is performed swiftly, and it does not cause any discomfort or pain to the patient.
Why is an OPG done?
Orthopantomography is a dental scan that allows doctors to view the inside of the patient’s mouth. The images help doctors determine the teeth' number, position, and growth.
This scan is recommended for various reasons, such as:
- To prepare an orthodontic treatment
- To determine whether wisdom teeth are developing or present
- To analyze the jaw structure
- To analyze the general view of the patient’s dental health
How to prepare for an Orthopantomogram?
Similar to all types of X-rays, before the scan you must take off all your jewellery, spectacles, and other metal objects from the body.
Frequently asked questions about Orthopantomogram (OPG) X-ray
What is an OPG scan?
Orthopantomography, also known as OPG is a dental scan that helps doctors examine a patient’s teeth. Doctors recommend this test to examine their patient’s teeth and assess their number, growth, and positions. This test also helps detect the presence of wisdom teeth and examine the jawbone.
When do doctors recommend an OPG scan?
Your doctor may recommend this test for various purposes, such as to examine your teeth' position and growth, detect wisdom teeth, plan orthodontic treatment, and analyse jawbone.
How long does the test take?
An OPG scan may take 5 to 10 minutes only.
Is the OPG scan painful?
No, an OPG scan involves a painless procedure and does not cause any discomfort to the patient.
Is the OPG scan a type of X-ray?
Yes, an OPG scan is a type of X-ray scan that provides a wide-angle view of the teeth.
What do the scan images show?
The scanned images show the structure, placement, and growth of your teeth or jawbone which helps your doctor detect the potential problem.