What is a panoramic dental X-ray (OPG)?
A panoramic dental X-ray is often called an OPG. OPG stands for orthopantomogram—the name of the image. Orthopantomography is the imaging method used to produce that image.
It shows the upper and lower jaws and the teeth in one two-dimensional overview. The detector is not placed inside the mouth. The image is used together with clinical examination; which imaging is needed depends on the findings.
How it differs from intraoral X-rays and CBCT
Intraoral radiographs (for example bitewing or periapical films) can provide detail in a more limited area and are often preferred for questions about individual teeth or early caries between teeth. A panoramic view gives a wider overview.
Dental Cone Beam CT (CBCT) produces three-dimensional images of a selected region. It is considered when the clinical question requires that information; it is not an automatic follow-up to a panoramic film. See the CBCT page for more detail.
When might an OPG be requested?
Imaging is requested after history, examination and review of previous images, when information is needed for diagnosis or treatment planning. It is not taken routinely every year for every patient.
Depending on the clinical question, a panoramic image may help form an overview of tooth position, the jaws and surrounding bone, or support planning discussions such as extractions, orthodontics, dentures or implants.
What happens during the scan
You are positioned so the head is steady; a bite guide may be used. Part of the machine moves around the head while the image is taken. Staying still helps image quality. How the scan is run and how results are shared follows the centre’s instructions.
You may be asked to remove jewellery, glasses or removable metal items that could obscure the image. Follow the centre’s preparation instructions. Fasting or stopping medicines is not a general requirement for this type of dental X-ray.
Radiation and special situations
Panoramic dental imaging uses ionizing X-rays. The dose depends on the device and the exposure settings. Your care team assesses the clinical need for the image.
If you are pregnant or may be pregnant, tell the care team before imaging. For children, whether imaging is needed is assessed individually.
How results are used
Your dentist reviews the image together with the examination and explains how the findings affect the treatment plan.
For clinical assessment see Dental Examination and Consultation. For appointments use Contact. Department overview: Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology.