100% Medicare Bulk Billed for eligible patients.
An OPG is a panoramic or wide view x-ray of the lower face, which displays all the teeth of the upper and lower jaw on a single film.
It demonstrates the number, position and growth of all the teeth including those that have not yet surfaced or erupted.
OPG is used for:
Assessing teeth, jaw structure, wisdom & impacted teeth, TMJ conditions, orthodontic treatment and dental implant planning.
A Lat Ceph is a lateral or side view x-ray of the face, which demonstrates the bones and facial contours in profile on a single film. Lat Ceph x-rays are usually used in the diagnosis and treatment of orthodontic problems.
Lat Ceph is used for:
Orthodontic treatment planning, assessing jaw and tooth alignment, and monitoring facial growth and development
At Edison Radiology, OPG and Lat Ceph X-rays are quick, comfortable and reported by experienced radiologists, providing the detailed images your dental team needs to plan treatment with confidence.
The examination takes approximately 5 minutes. You’ll stand or sit at the machine and gently bite on a small bite block to help keep your head in the correct position. You’ll need to remain very still while the machine moves around your head and captures the images. No injections are required, and the examination is painless.
No special preparation is usually required. A good night’s sleep.
Remove any jewellery or metal items around your head and neck before your X-ray.
Arrive 10 minutes early to check in and complete paperwork.
Your radiographer will position you and place the X-ray sensor in your mouth. You’ll need to remain still while the images are taken. The process is quick and painless.
No recovery time is required. You can leave after your appointment and return to your normal activities.
Images will be reviewed by a senior radiologist and reported as required, with the results provided to your referring dentist or healthcare professional.
If you would prefer lead shielding for yourself or your child, please discuss this with our radiographer before the examination. They can explain whether it can be used without affecting the images and in line with clinic policy. Please also tell our team if you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant.
Your X-ray images and report will be sent to your referring dentist, orthodontist or doctor. If you would like a copy of your images, please ask our reception team, who can explain how to request access.
A lead apron is generally not needed for routine OPG or lateral cephalometric X-rays. Current dental imaging guidance advises against routine patient shielding, including for children and pregnant patients. Shielding can obscure the images and lead to repeat X-rays. Our radiographer will follow the applicable safety requirements for your examination.
