OPG
South West Rocks Family Dental has been proudly serving the South West Rocks and Kempsey Shire for over 30 years.
OPG
Radiographs are an essential diagnostic tool used in dentistry to assess and diagnose various dental and oral conditions. We can’t see through your teeth (even with our magnifying loupes) and many dental problems start where only radiographs can reach. We often call it a Big X-Ray, basically, it’s an overview of your oral health.
An orthopantomogram (OPG) is a type of dental x-ray that provides a 2D panoramic view of the entire mouth, including the teeth, jawbone, and surrounding structures. This diagnostic tool is essential in dentistry, allowing us to assess and diagnose various dental and oral conditions, such as dental caries, gum disease, and jaw abnormalities.
We take the OPG, or a CBCT (3D Xray), in a different room. It’s really easy and for some patients such as gaggers, it may be the only type of radiographs they can tolerate. This technology at South West Rocks Family Dental saves our patients an hour round trip to Kempsey, we’re proud to be cutting edge here on the coast.
OPG radiographs are taken standing up, you hold the handles and bite on a bite block. We align your head and when it’s all right, we ask you to put your tongue to the top of your mouth and stay still for 15 seconds. The machine turns around your head and it’s done! Easy and quick.
Benefits of OPG: An OPG provides a comprehensive view of the mouth, making it an efficient and effective diagnostic tool. It also exposes patients to a lower radiation dose compared to other types of dental x-rays.
When OPG is needed: OPG may be recommended as part of routine dental exams or for specific dental issues, such as wisdom teeth evaluation, dental implant planning, and orthodontic treatment planning. The general recommendation in Australia is every 5 years.
Pros and Cons of OPG
Pros:
Comprehensive Imaging: OPG provides a comprehensive view of the mouth, making it an efficient and effective diagnostic tool.
Lower Radiation Exposure: OPG exposes patients to a lower radiation dose compared to other types of dental x-rays such as CBCT.
Non-Invasive: OPG is a non-invasive procedure that even a gagger can easily tolerate.
Early Detection: OPG can detect dental and oral conditions in their early stages, allowing dental professionals to provide prompt and effective treatment.
Easy to Use: The OPG process is quick and easy, making it a convenient diagnostic tool for both patients and dental professionals.
Cons:
Limited Detail: OPG provides a panoramic view of the mouth, but it may not capture specific details of individual teeth or structures, requiring 3D imaging such as CBCT.
At South West Rocks Dental, we believe regular care and comprehensive diagnosis should be accessible to all. We’ve introduced Capped Price Care which means as a new patient, you can get all 2d x-rays and your consultation for a maximum of $149. This is more than half price if you need what most of us require for thorough examination.
FAQ's: OPG
An OPG is a type of dental x-ray that provides a panoramic view of the entire mouth, including the teeth, jawbone, and surrounding structures.
An OPG may be recommended as part of routine dental exams or for specific dental issues, such as wisdom teeth evaluation, dental implant planning, and orthodontic treatment planning.
No, an OPG is a painless procedure. Patients are asked to stand or sit still while the camera rotates around their head, capturing the panoramic image.
The OPG process is quick and usually takes around 10-15 seconds.
The frequency of OPGs varies depending on individual dental needs. If you’re high risk for decay or gum disease you may need them more frequently. For most people every 5 years is recommended.
Yes, an OPG exposes patients to a lower radiation dose compared to other types of dental x-rays.
Yes, children can have an OPG if it is necessary for their dental treatment or assessment. However, the dental professional will take special care to ensure the radiation dose is appropriate for the child’s age and size.
While OPG is generally safe, there is a small risk of exposure to radiation. However, we take precautions to ensure the radiation dose is appropriate for each patient’s individual needs.
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