About Orthopantomography (OPG) and Cephalometry

What is the test used for?
The OPG machine These are special x-ray techniques which look at the teeth and jaw.
An OPG ("orthopantomogram") gives a panoramic view of the mouth, giving information on the teeth and the bones of the upper and lower jaw.
Cephalometry is used to obtain measurements and determine relationships of the structures of the lower face.

What is the preparation for the test?
No preparation is necessary.

Will I have to undress?
You will not have to undress, but will be asked to remove any removable jewellery in the region of your face and head. Metal will cause artifacts on the image, and may obscure abnormalities.

Where will I be for the test?
The dental x-ray machines are specialised pieces of equipment kept in the general x-ray room. You will be asked to stand with your chin resting on a small shelf to provide accurate positioning. For an OPG, you will be asked to bite gently on a covered mouth piece to steady your head. The radiographer will guide you through it all, and the examination is almost never uncomfortable.

How is the test done?
An OPG aims to view the jaw, while blurring out the other structures of the face and skull. This is done using a technique called "tomography". As the X-ray tube moves around your head, the x-ray film moves in the opposite direction behind your head. This generates an image where the jaw is in focus, and the skull is blurred.

Cephalograms are taken with the face viewed from the side. (Lateral)

Does it hurt?
No