OPG at Radiant Radiology, Gold Coast & Logan
Radiant Radiology provides OPG (orthopantomogram) imaging, a panoramic dental X-ray that captures your entire mouth in a single image, including all teeth, the upper and lower jaws, and the jaw joints.
An OPG is the standard first line dental X-ray used in general dentistry, orthodontics, and oral surgery. The scan takes only seconds, uses a low dose of radiation, and requires no injection or preparation.
Have a referral? Book your OPG at your nearest Radiant Radiology clinic.
What an OPG Shows
A single OPG image covers:
All upper and lower teeth, including those that have not yet erupted.
The upper jaw (maxilla) and lower jaw (mandible).
The temporomandibular joints (TMJ).
Surrounding bone structure and the sinuses above the upper teeth.
Your dentist, orthodontist, oral surgeon, or doctor may request an OPG for wisdom tooth assessment, orthodontic planning, implant assessment, general jaw assessment, or to review overall dental and bone structure.
How We Perform Your OPG
The scan is quick and straightforward. You stand or sit at the machine and gently bite on a small positioner to hold your jaw in the correct position. The arm of the machine then rotates slowly around your head.
You will be asked to stay still during the rotation, which takes around 15 to 20 seconds. Nothing touches your face and there is no enclosed space.
Most appointments are completed within a few minutes. Our radiologists review the images and provide a report to your referring practitioner.
Preparing for Your OPG
No special preparation is required. As a general guide:
Remove jewellery, earrings, glasses, hairpins, and any removable dental plates or dentures before the scan.
Hearing aids and neck chains also need to be removed.
Let us know if you are or may be pregnant.
Bring your referral with you.
OPG and CBCT
An OPG and a CBCT scan are different examinations, and a CBCT is not simply a more detailed OPG.
An OPG produces a two dimensional panoramic image and answers most routine dental questions. A CBCT produces a three dimensional image, involves a higher radiation dose, and is requested when three dimensional information is needed to answer a specific clinical question, such as precise implant site assessment or the position of an impacted tooth relative to a nerve.
Your referring practitioner determines which examination is appropriate. See our CBCT page for more detail.
Why Choose Radiant Radiology for OPG
- Fast scanning with minimal preparation
- Low radiation dose
- Referrals accepted from dentists, orthodontists, oral surgeons, and medical practitioners
- Prompt reporting and image access for your referring practitioner
- Radiant Radiology provides dental imaging for practitioners and patients across the Gold Coast and Logan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a referral for an OPG?
Yes. Referrals are accepted from dentists, orthodontists, oral surgeons, and medical practitioners such as your GP. Bring your referral with you to your appointment.
How long does an OPG take?
The scan itself takes around 15 to 20 seconds, and most appointments are completed within a few minutes including preparation.
Does an OPG hurt?
No. Nothing touches your face, there is no injection, and there is no enclosed space. You simply bite gently on a positioner and stay still while the machine rotates.
Is an OPG safe for children?
OPGs are routinely used in children, particularly for orthodontic assessment and monitoring developing teeth. The radiation dose is low and settings are adjusted appropriately. Tell our team the patient's age when booking.
What is the difference between an OPG and a CBCT?
An OPG is a two dimensional panoramic image that answers most routine dental questions. A CBCT provides a three dimensional image at a higher radiation dose, and is used when three dimensional detail is needed for a specific clinical question. Your referring practitioner decides which is appropriate.
Can I get a copy of my images?
Yes. Our team can explain how your images and report are provided to you and to your referring practitioner.
OPG Available Locations
Contact your nearest clinic to confirm availability and book your OPG:
Ready to book? Bring your referral with you, and our team can confirm any costs when you call.