WHAT IS AN OPG?
An OPG is a panoramic X-ray of the upper and lower jaws, including the teeth. The OPG unit is specifically designed to rotate around the patient’s head during the scan. An OPG will take approximately 20 seconds.
An OPG can be used to look for
- Fractures
- Dislocated jaw
- Infection
- Dentition (teeth)
It can also be used for surgical planning for dental implants
BENEFITS OF AN O.P.G
- Painless, fast and easy.
- No radiation is left in your body after the OPG is finished
- Give us an overview of your dentition which can be left unseen on the smaller xrays.
- We receive the image as soon as the opg is done no need to wait.
JUST BEFORE THE O.P.G-
There is no special preparation for an OPG. You may be asked to remove any metal objects.
IMPORTANT TO TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE THE O.P.G-
If you are or may be pregnant
HOW O.P.G IS TAKEN -
We will ask you to sit on a chair or stand for the OPG. It is important that you tell the staff if you have difficulty sitting or standing unassisted. The radiographer may place a protective shield over the parts of your body not being X-rayed, or you may be asked to wear a protective apron.
When you are ready, the radiographer will go behind a screen to start the OPG machine. They will ask you to be still during the OPG. When your OPG is finished you will be asked to wait while the radiographer checks the pictures. The procedure usually takes about 5 minutes including time taken to get ready. You will be able to go soon after the OPG is finished and can continue with normal activities.
