OPG X-Ray Service in Paldi

OPG X-Rays

An OPG is a panoramic or wide view x-ray of the lower face, which displays all the teeth of the upper and lower jaw on a single film. It demonstrates the number, position, and growth of all the teeth including those that have not yet surfaced or erupted. It is different from the small close-up x-rays dentists take of individual teeth. An OPG may also reveal problems with the jawbone and the joint which connects the jawbone to the head called the Temporomandibular joint or TMJ. An OPG may be requested for the planning of orthodontic treatment, for assessment of wisdom teeth, or for a general overview of the teeth and the bone which supports the teeth.

What does an OPG X-ray consist of and involve?

An OPG is an X-ray of the lower face. Like all X-rays, it involves using short blasts of low-level radiation to create images of inside the body – in this case, of the bones and teeth.

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 afterward.