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OPG Full Jaw X-Rays
An OPG dental x-ray at Warner Dental gives the treating dentist a full panoramic image of your teeth, jaw, and surrounding bone in a single scan. For patients in Warner and North Brisbane, this means access to an important diagnostic tool without needing a separate referral to an external imaging facility. Warner Dental has been providing comprehensive dental care to the local community since 2002, and in-house OPG imaging is part of that commitment to thorough, patient-focused assessment.
An OPG, or orthopantomogram, is a type of panoramic dental x-ray that captures your entire upper and lower jaw in one image. Unlike standard bitewing x-rays, which focus on a small section of the mouth at a time, an OPG provides a broad view that includes all of your teeth, the surrounding jaw bone, and several nearby structures.
The image is taken using a machine that moves around the outside of your head. You do not need to open your mouth wide or hold an uncomfortable position. The scan takes only a matter of seconds.
OPG imaging is used to support treatment planning, identify developing problems, and give dentists a fuller picture of your oral and jaw health than smaller x-rays can provide on their own.
A dentist may recommend an OPG in a range of clinical situations, including:
An OPG is often part of a comprehensive new patient assessment. If a dentist has already noted something on a routine examination that requires a broader view, this imaging helps clarify the picture before moving forward with any treatment.
There is very little preparation required. You will be asked to remove any jewellery, glasses, or hairpins that may interfere with the image. The process is explained before it begins so you know exactly what to expect. The scan does not require an injection, anaesthetic, or any instruments placed inside the mouth.
You will stand or sit in front of the OPG machine and bite gently on a small positioning guide. The scanner arm rotates around your head in a smooth arc, capturing the full panoramic image. The scanning time is approximately fifteen to twenty seconds. The machine does not touch your face during the rotation.
The image is captured digitally and is available for review immediately. The dentist will go through the findings with you during the same appointment. If the OPG reveals anything that requires further investigation or a referral, that will be discussed with you clearly and without pressure.
There is no recovery time and no after-effects from the scan. You can drive, eat, and continue your normal activities straight away. If further treatment is recommended based on the findings, the team at Warner Dental will explain your options and answer any questions you have.
One of the most common questions patients ask about dental x-rays is whether the radiation exposure is something to be concerned about. Modern OPG equipment uses a low dose of ionising radiation, and the exposure is considerably less than most other medical imaging procedures such as a chest x-ray or CT scan.
ARPANSA, the Australian Government agency responsible for radiation protection, publishes dental radiation safety guidance that puts dental imaging doses in context with everyday exposure. Warner Dental follows all recommended protocols for radiation safety in dental imaging.
Dentists recommend OPG imaging when there is a clear clinical reason. It is not done routinely at every visit. The decision to recommend imaging is always based on what is clinically appropriate for the individual patient.
Warner Dental has been part of the North Brisbane community since 2002. Over that time, the practice has built a reputation for thorough, considered dental care that focuses on long-term outcomes rather than short-term fixes. In-house OPG imaging is part of making that care as efficient and complete as possible for local patients.
One practical advantage for patients is that OPG imaging is available in-house at Warner Dental, which means there is no need for a separate referral to an external imaging facility. The scan is taken, reviewed, and discussed with your dentist at the same appointment. For services such as dental implants at Warner Dental and wisdom teeth assessment and removal, accurate jaw imaging is a standard part of the planning process.
Warner Dental provides care for patients from Warner, Bray Park, Strathpine, Cashmere, Joyner, and across North Brisbane. If you are a new patient, you can find out more about what to expect by visiting the new patient information page before your first appointment.
Warner Dental welcomes both new and existing patients from Warner, North Lakes, Bray Park, Strathpine, and surrounding North Brisbane suburbs. If you have been referred for an OPG or would like a comprehensive dental assessment that includes panoramic imaging, the team is ready to help you get the information you need.
Protect your smile with regular care at Warner Dental.
OPG stands for orthopantomogram. It is a type of dental x-ray that produces a panoramic image of the entire upper and lower jaw in a single scan. The term is sometimes used interchangeably with panoramic x-ray or full mouth x-ray. All three terms refer to the same type of imaging.
The scan itself takes approximately fifteen to twenty seconds. Including preparation and positioning, the full process is usually completed in under ten minutes. The image is available digitally and is reviewed with the dentist at the same appointment, so there is no waiting period for results.
An OPG is non-invasive and does not cause pain. You are not required to open your mouth wide or hold still for more than a few seconds. Most patients find it to be one of the more straightforward parts of a dental visit. If you have concerns about the process, the team at Warner Dental will explain what is happening at each step.
No referral is needed. A dentist at Warner Dental can recommend and carry out an OPG as part of your appointment when it is clinically appropriate. If you have been told by another practitioner that you need a panoramic x-ray, you are welcome to contact Warner Dental directly to arrange an appointment.
Yes. OPG x-rays are commonly used for children and teenagers to assess tooth development, identify unerupted teeth, and monitor jaw growth. The procedure is the same as for adults and takes only a matter of seconds. The imaging team will make sure younger patients are comfortable and understand what is happening before the scan begins.
Some private health funds provide a partial rebate for diagnostic dental imaging including OPGs, depending on your level of cover. The team at Warner Dental can provide the relevant item code so you can check your entitlements with your fund before your appointment. Call (07) 3882 3200 for more information.
OPG imaging is not recommended on a set schedule the way some routine x-rays are. It is generally suggested when there is a specific clinical reason, such as implant planning, wisdom teeth assessment, jaw pain investigation, or a comprehensive new patient review. Your dentist will explain why imaging is being recommended if it comes up during your appointment. For ongoing monitoring, routine dental check-ups allow the treating dentist to reassess whether imaging is appropriate over time.
Thorough examination, professional clean, and fluoride application to maintain healthy teeth and gums.
Protective coatings applied to back teeth to reduce the risk of decay.
Custom-fitted appliances for sports protection and management of teeth grinding (bruxism).
Compassionate, patient-focused care for those who feel nervous about dental treatment.
Clear, detailed assessments to help you make informed decisions about your dental health.
Assessment and treatment of enamel wear caused by grinding, acid erosion, or ageing.
Saving infected or damaged teeth by removing infection and restoring strength.
Natural-looking restorations to repair cavities and protect tooth structure.
Custom-made restorations to strengthen and protect weakened teeth.
Replacing missing teeth to restore function and maintain alignment.
Removable options to replace multiple or all missing teeth and improve chewing ability.
