What is OPG and Lateral/PA Ceph?
An orthopantomogram, commonly known as OPG, is a panoramic x-ray screening of the upper and lower jaw.
OPG scans can be a useful diagnostic tool for dentists and orthodontists, used to check for impacted wisdom teeth, checking the development of teeth in children, and general screening as part of your dental check-up. OPG scans show the number, position and growth of your teeth, and can be useful when assessing teeth that have not surfaced yet.
Lateral cephalogram (Lat Ceph) and posteroanterior cephalogram (PA Ceph) examinations are x-rays of the side of your face, which are used to evaluate facial bones and occlusion. They are particularly useful for planning orthodontic treatment.
One of our friendly radiographers will conduct your OPG or Lat/PA Ceph scan.
For an OPG, we will ask you to stand in the machine and bite gently on a covered mouthpiece, as the machine rotates once around your head.
For a Lat or PA Ceph, you will remain standing while the machine obtains the required image from the side or back.
You will need to remain still for the duration of your scans, as movement can cause blurriness.
An OPG or Lat/PA Ceph scan does not require preparation. You will be asked to remove hearing aids, dental plates, and any metal or jewellery from your head and neck before your scan.
Please arrive 15 minutes before your appointment with your Medicare card and/or concession card, your referral, and any previous scans. If you have a child aged 6 or under, they must be supervised by an adult other than the patient.
The amount of radiation used for dental x-rays is very small. Health experts feel the risk to your health from this is very small and the benefits of the diagnostic information obtained usually outweigh any potential risks. No radiation remains in your body after the x-ray.
If you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant, please let your doctor and our staff know, as x-rays can potentially harm an unborn baby.
Generally, dental x-rays do not require any after care. After your scan, you may continue with your normal daily activities, unless advised otherwise by your referring practitioner.
The cost of other dental imaging examinations depends on several factors, including the type of scan that has been requested.
Please contact your preferrer clinic and our friendly customer service team will be able to advise you of the costs involved, including any out-of-pocket costs.
We recommend arranging alternative childcare for the day of your scan or bringing another adult with you to care for your child.
Children are not allowed in the examination room, and there is no supervision available in the waiting area.
Our staff need to maintain full focus during your examination to ensure the best possible care.
