OPG

OPG (Orthopantogram)

OPG or dental X-ray creates images of the mouth or jaw – bones, teeth and gums using low-level X-radiation. It is a panoramic scanning dental x ray of the upper and the lower jaw.

Orthopantomography (OPG), also known as an OPG X-ray or dental x-ray, is an X-ray scan that gives a panoramic or wide view of the lower face.

Diagnostic Uses

OPG are used by Dentists to provide information on:

• Impacted wisdom teeth
• Periodontal bone loss
• Finding the source of dental pain
• Assessment for the placement of dental implants
• Orthodontic assessment

Principal Advantage of Panoramic Images

• Broad coverage of facial bones and teeth.
• Low patient radiation dose.
• Convenience of examination for the patient (films need not be placed inside the mouth).
• Ability to be used in patients who cannot open the mouth or when the opening is restricted e.g.: due to trismus.
• Short time required for making the image.
• Patient’s ready understandability of panoramic films, making them a useful visual aid in patient education and case presentation.