OPG X-ray
Advanced imaging solution
Receive a comprehensive evaluation of your oral health for early detection and optimal care.
OPG X-ray
Creating smiles that last a lifetime
At Simply Teeth, we recognise accurate diagnosis and thorough treatment planning is crucial to giving you incredible oral health outcomes. Our experienced team finely tailors treatments perfectly aligned to your needs by using advanced imaging technology, including OPG X-rays. This extremely safe state of the art service enables us to evaluate your oral health with remarkable precision, ensuring we analyse every angle of your oral health in the highest detail.
What is an OPG X-ray?
An OPG (Orthopantomogram) X-ray, also known as a panoramic radiograph, is a specialised dental imaging technique that captures a wide-view image of your entire mouth in a single image. This includes the teeth, jaws and surrounding structures and provides the basis for treatment planning which integrates the broadest range of oral health factors.
Unlike traditional intraoral X-rays, which focus on individual teeth or small sections of the mouth, an OPG X-ray provides a comprehensive overview in a single image. This panoramic view allows us to assess the overall health of the teeth and jaws, detect abnormalities and plan various dental treatments effectively.
Why are OPG X-rays important?
OPG X-rays are essential for identifying a wide range of dental and jaw-related issues, such as:
- Unerupted or impacted teeth
- Jawbone abnormalities
- Tumours and cysts
- Traumatic injuries or fractures
- Developmental abnormalities
- Orthodontic treatment planning
- Dental implant planning
- Maxillary sinus issues or infections
How is an OPG X-ray performed?
The OPG X-ray procedure is simple and non-invasive. Here’s what to expect:
Patient preparation: Before the procedure begins, you’ll need to remove any metal objects or jewellery from your mouth that could obstruct the X-ray image.
Machine preparation: The OPG machine is adjusted and calibrated based on factors such as your age, the specific area being examined and the purpose of the scan.
Data storage and processing: After the scan is complete, your information and the resulting image are stored in a database. We will then review the image to ensure its quality and accuracy, adding any necessary measurements, observations or recommendations to the final report.
Image capturing: Once you’re in position, the machine will emit X-rays directed at your teeth, jawbones and surrounding soft tissues. These X-rays penetrate your mouth and produce a panoramic image that provides valuable diagnostic insights.
Patient positioning: You’ll be positioned in front of the machine, typically standing or sitting, with your face resting on a designated shelf. To ensure a clear image, you’ll gently bite down on a bite blocker or a mouthpiece to keep your head steady during the scan.
Is an OPG X-ray safe?
OPG X-rays are quite safe, featuring significantly lower radiation levels than many other imaging procedures. Special precautions are taken with sensitive individuals, especially pregnant women. During the first trimester of pregnancy, it’s advisable to avoid X-rays unless absolutely necessary, as the foetus is most vulnerable during this period. In the second trimester, while the risk is lower, precautions such as wearing a lead apron should still be taken to minimise any potential harm to the developing baby.
Please inform your Simply Teeth dentist about your pregnancy so that we can offer the necessary care and precautions tailored to your specific needs.
How much radiation will you get?
Modern OPG machines, such as the Planmeca ProOne OPG used at Simply Teeth, prioritise patient safety by minimising radiation exposure to the lowest levels possible. This commitment aligns with the ethical standard of “as low as diagnostically acceptable” (ALADA), ensuring safe and low-dose imaging for kids and adults.
While the actual radiation dose varies depending on individual factors, including the type of examination and patient characteristics, rest assured that our team at Simply Teeth is dedicated to ensuring your safety and well-being. You’re welcome to consult with your Simply Teeth dentist for specific information.
When should you get an OPG X-ray?
Routine dental check-ups: At Simply Teeth, we often include an OPG X-ray as part of your regular dental examination to assess your overall oral health. These routine scans help us detect any underlying dental issues early on, even before symptoms arise.
Treatment planning: OPG X-rays are commonly used to plan various dental treatments such as orthodontic procedures, wisdom tooth extractions or dental implants. It provides a detailed overview of your teeth and jawbones, assisting us in developing effective treatment strategies tailored to your individual needs.
Specific dental concerns: If you’re experiencing unexplained pain, jaw abnormalities or suspected impacted teeth, we may recommend an OPG X-ray to get a comprehensive view of your dental structures. This allows for a more accurate diagnosis and targeted treatment planning.
Follow-up assessments: In some cases, we may recommend periodic OPG X-rays to monitor changes in your oral health over time. These follow-up scans help us track the progression of dental conditions, assess treatment effectiveness and adjust treatment plans as needed.
Frequency: The frequency of OPG X-rays varies depending on your individual needs and risk factors. Some patients may require OPG X-rays more frequently than others, especially if they have a history of dental problems or are undergoing extensive dental treatment. We will determine the appropriate timing for OPG X-rays based on your specific circumstances.
OPG X-ray in West Perth
Leveraging the latest technology, Simply Teeth uses OPG X-rays to enhance early diagnosis and efficient treatment planning. OPG X-rays are a valuable tool in our modern practice, assisting us in early diagnosis, efficient treatment planning and continuous oral health monitoring.
Have questions about OPG X-rays or want to discuss your dental health? Contact Simply Teeth now to arrange a consultation. Our dedicated team is here to guide you through your concerns and precisely map your path to exceptional oral health.
