How do OPG scans work?

Question

if your dentice wants a OPG scan, when you get it done the x-ray gets sent to your dentice? what kind of problems can be found with a OPG scan that a dentice would view, cavitys, holes?

what are all the different things a dentice would look for in a OPG scan?

Answer 1

I'm still not sure if your use of OPG means "orthopantomogram" or not, but check this out. It shows a panoramic x-ray, known to some as an orthopantomogram.

http://members.aol.com/swf08302/panvsfmx.jpg

The yellow outline show you the approximate area that would be covered by a really good full mouth series. Everything outside the yellow border would only show up in a panoramic x-ray. The FMX may be a bit sharper, but it is quite limited in diagnostic scope compared to a panoramic x-ray. This is an actual x-ray from my office and it's typical of my panoramic films. I usually start a new patient off with a panoramic x-ray and supplement it with 2 or 4 bite wing x-rays for more clarity in the critical areas.

Pros: Much broader area covered
Cons: Possible loss of detail, although I am quite happy with my films

Answer 2

An OPG xray is not used for looking for cavities etc it is used to see how the root system of the teeth are and to look at the jaw joints and the way the whole mouth is sitting. It also shows the sinus. It is a very detailed xray.