OPG (Orthopantomogram)

OPG (Orthopantomogram)

What it is?

An OPG is a type of dental X-ray that captures a wide, panoramic view of your upper and lower jaws in a single image.

What it Shows?

  • > All your teeth, including wisdom teeth
  • > The position and growth of teeth
  • > Jawbone structure
  • > Jaw joints (TMJ)
  • > Detection of cysts, tumors, and other abnormalities

Uses

  • > Assessing wisdom teeth impaction
  • > Planning for dental implants
  • > Evaluating jawbone conditions
  • > Detecting dental abnormalities

Cephalogram (Lateral Cephalometric Radiograph)

What it is?

An OPG is a type of dental X-ray that captures a wide, panoramic view of your upper and lower jaws in a single image.

What it Shows?

  • > Orthodontic treatment planning (braces)
  • > Assessing jaw growth in children
  • > Evaluating facial deformities

Uses

  • > Assessing wisdom teeth impaction
  • > Planning for dental implants
  • > Evaluating jawbone conditions
  • > Detecting dental abnormalities

Key Differences

Feature OPG Cephalogram
View Panoramic (wide view) Side view
Focus Teeth, jaws, and surrounding structures Skeletal structures, facial profile
Primary Use Assessing wisdom teeth, dental implants, jawbone conditions Orthodontic treatment planning, assessing jaw growth

Important Notes:

Both OPG and Cephalograms use low doses of radiation.

Pregnant women should inform their dentist before undergoing any dental X-rays.

If you have any concerns about radiation exposure, discuss them with your dentist.