What is an orthopantomography?
An orthopantomogram, also known as an OPG (or simply OPG) radiograph, panoramic radiograph or pantogram, is a type of radiograph that provides a panoramic or wide view of the lower face. It can show all the teeth of both jaws on a single slide, including those that have not yet surfaced or grown in, such as wisdom teeth. It also provides a view of the jaw and the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which connects the jaw to the rest of the skull.
What does an OPG X-ray involve/consist of?
An OPG is an X-ray of the lower face. Like all X-rays, it involves the use of short bursts of low-level radiation to create images of the inside of the body, in this case, the bones and teeth. The procedure for dental panoramic radiography consists of the patient resting his or her chin on a small shelf in front of the x-ray machine and biting gently on a sterile mouthpiece. This will hold 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 (the one that captures the image) at the opposite end. The arm rotates around the patient’s head to capture the wide image of the mouth and jaw. The procedure is performed very quickly. As with any X-ray, the patient feels no discomfort during the procedure and can then continue with his or her daily routine.
An orthopantomogram is a type of X-ray that provides a panoramic view of the lower jaw.
a panoramic view of the lower face.
Why is an OPG X-ray performed?
Orthopantomography is a technique used in dentistry that allows the dentist to view all of the patient’s teeth and determine their number, position and growth, including those that have not yet erupted. OPG radiography may be performed to plan orthodontic treatment, to detect the presence or evaluate the development of wisdom teeth, to examine the jaw, or to obtain an overview of the patient’s dental health.
Preparing for orthopantomography
As with all x-rays, the patient will be asked to remove any jewelry, glasses or other metal objects prior to the scan, as they may affect the images.
Advances
Dental X-ray technology is currently moving away from traditional film technology to digital X-ray technology, using electronic sensors and computers to create images. Digital X-rays allow instant review of radiographs without having to wait to develop the film. They are also more efficient in obtaining high-quality images the first time, reducing the number of repeat scans needed and, therefore, reducing the patient’s exposure to radiation.