OPG and Cephalometry

Orthopantograms (OPG) and Cephalometry are specialised x-ray examinations that image your teeth, jaw and facial structures. They are commonly referred by general practitioners, dentists and facial surgeons in order to examine your teeth, jaw and facial structures and are taken with a specialised x-ray unit.  The images may be used in the diagnosis and ongoing management of conditions affecting these structures. Precise measurements can be taken off the images for planning facial and dental surgery, removal of teeth or the application of braces.

The Procedure

Both of these tests only take a few minutes.

Orthopantogram

• A member of staff will explain the procedure and answer any other pertinent questions.
• You will be asked to remove all dentures and false teeth, jewellery and clothing with zippers that are close to your face or head.
• You will be required to stand within the OPG unit, holding onto handlebars and biting onto a small ‘Bite Piece’. This is to make sure you stand still.
• The machine will turn slowly around your head taking the picture. It is important that you stay still during this procedure which takes about 30 seconds.

Cephalometry

• A member of staff will explain the procedure and answer any questions that you may have.
• You will be asked to remove all dentures and false teeth, jewellery and clothing with zippers that are close to your head.
• You stand inside the machine; small blunt pegs that are attached to the machine are inserted gently into your ears to make sure you keep very still.
• The x-ray is taken very quickly after which the pegs will be removed from your ears.

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You can make an appointment for your OPG or cephalometry scan with the Al Safwa Radiology Centre, Sharjah. Our staff will assist you with any question related to your OPG or Cephalometry.