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OPG and Lateral Ceph

Orthopantomogram, or OPG, is a 2D X-ray that looks at the maxilla (upper jaw) and mandible (lower jaw). The teeth are displayed in a panoramic image. This X-ray is useful to demonstrate the number of teeth as well as their position and growth. It is particularly useful to assess teeth that have not yet surfaced, such as wisdom teeth.

Lateral Cephalogram (or Lat Ceph) is an X-ray that shows a side-on view of your face with very precise positioning. This is done so measurements can be taken to determine the current and future relationship of the top and bottom jaws (maxilla and mandible) and therefore, assess the nature of your bite. This is particularly useful to plan orthodontic treatment. As treatment progresses, it is helpful to have any additional Lat Cephs taken at the same practice so that the X-rays can be easily compared.

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FAQs

  • There is no preparation required for OPG or Lat Cephs.

    You will be asked to remove any jewellery or metal items from your head and neck area including hair accessories, dentures, plates and hearing aids.

  • You will be asked to stand, facing the X-ray machine while part of the machine moves around your head.

    You may be required to bite onto a mouthpiece attached to the machine. Your radiographer will explain where and how to bite depending on the scan type.

  • An OPG or Lat Ceph scan takes approximately 10-15 seconds, and is fairly comfortable.

  • To book a OPG / Lat Ceph with Queensland X-Ray, access our portal here.

  • There is radiation involved in a (service here) – but we use low-dose radiation software throughout all our imaging procedures. Due to the dose of radiation emitted, you will not be able to have this scan if you are pregnant. You can read about Radiation Dose here.

How much will it cost?

Fees for radiology procedures will vary depending on a variety of factors. We will advise you about the cost of your service at the time of booking but if you do have any questions, contact us and one of our team will be happy to help with your query. You can read more about our billing information here.

How do I access my images?

At Queensland X-Ray, we provide our patients with their images and results online. To access your images and results, you’ll need to register for an account when you visit one of our practices. If you’ve already registered, you can access the Patient Portal here.

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