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An OPG (Orthopantomogram) is a single panoramic X-ray that captures all your teeth, both jaws, the temporomandibular joints (TMJ), surrounding bone and nasal and sinus structures in one image. The scan takes approximately 15–20 seconds. It does not hurt. Radiation dose is approximately 0.014 mSv — the equivalent of a few hours of everyday background radiation. OPG is used before wisdom tooth removal, dental implants, orthodontic treatment, full dentures and new patient assessments. Written itemised quote before treatment. All health funds via HICAPS. CDBS for eligible children. Available at Toongabbie, North Ryde and Blacktown.
For independent information: Healthdirect — Dental X-Rays · ARPANSA — Radiation Safety · Australian Dental Association
| Full name | Orthopantomogram (OPG) · also called panoramic X-ray, OPT, Panorex |
| ADA item number | 037 (Full mouth / Large OPG X-ray / Panoramic) |
| What it captures | All teeth · both jaws (maxilla + mandible) · jaw joints (TMJ) · bone · sinuses · nasal cavity |
| Scan duration | ~15–20 seconds for the image · total appointment ~5–10 minutes |
| Radiation dose | ~0.014 mSv per scan · equivalent to a few hours of everyday background radiation |
| Typical cost | $90–$150 at a dental practice (ADA 037) · written quote before appointment |
| Health fund | ✓ General dental extras apply · HICAPS on-the-spot claiming |
| CDBS (children 2–17) | ✓ ADA 037 covered for eligible children under CDBS · all 3 Paynless Dental clinics |
| Medicare | ✓ May be claimable at standalone radiology centre with dentist referral |
| Preparation needed | None · remove metal jewellery below ears · inform staff if pregnant |
| Does it hurt? | No. No injections. No film inside the mouth. Machine rotates around the outside of your head. |
| Safe for children? | Yes. Commonly taken from age 6–7. Dose is low. Essential for orthodontic and developmental assessment. |
| Safe in pregnancy? | Inform staff before the scan. OPG is not routinely recommended during pregnancy unless clinically necessary. |
| Clinics | Toongabbie · North Ryde · Blacktown (24×7 Dental Suite) |
Prepared by: Paynless Dental Editorial Team Clinical review: Dr Payal Gupta · Principal Dentist · AHPRA Registered Dentist
Reviewed: July 2026 · Next scheduled review: July 2027
This page provides general educational information about panoramic X-rays (OPG) in dental practice. Radiation dose information is sourced from ARPANSA and peer-reviewed dental radiography literature. ADA item code information is sourced from the Australian Dental Association. It is not a substitute for personalised dental advice. Individual patient testimonials are not reproduced on this page in compliance with AHPRA advertising guidelines.
An OPG gives your dentist a complete overview — both jaws, all teeth, the supporting bone and surrounding anatomical structures — in a single image. Here is what your dentist assesses when reviewing your OPG.
An OPG is a two-dimensional overview — it is not designed for fine detail of individual teeth. Small interproximal cavities between adjacent teeth are better detected on bitewing X-rays. Fine root canal detail and three-dimensional bone anatomy for implant planning require CBCT (Cone Beam CT / 3D X-ray). Most comprehensive dental treatment plans combine an OPG with intraoral bitewing X-rays, as each provides information the other cannot.
An OPG is ordered when your dentist needs a broad overview of your jaw, teeth and surrounding structures — usually to plan treatment, investigate a problem or assess development. It is not taken routinely at every appointment.
| Clinical Reason | What the OPG Shows | What Happens Next |
|---|---|---|
| New patient assessment | Baseline overview of all teeth, bone levels, existing restorations, unerupted teeth, any pathology | Foundation for your treatment plan — combined with intraoral X-rays and examination |
| Wisdom tooth assessment | Position, angulation and depth of wisdom teeth · proximity to inferior alveolar nerve · associated cysts | Determines extraction complexity and whether referral to oral surgeon is appropriate |
| Dental implant planning | Available bone height · sinus floor location · mandibular nerve position · adjacent tooth roots | OPG gives overview · CBCT may follow for precise 3D bone measurement before implant placement |
| Orthodontic treatment / braces | All teeth including developing permanent teeth · root lengths · extra or missing teeth · jaw relationship | Combined with lateral cephalogram for full orthodontic records — taken before and after treatment |
| Full denture construction | Remaining bone volume · retained roots · cysts under proposed denture area | Ensures no buried pathology before impression taking · retained roots identified for removal |
| Suspected jaw pathology | Cysts · tumours · fibrous lesions · jaw fractures · bone abnormalities | Further imaging (CBCT or MRI) or referral to oral surgeon or maxillofacial specialist |
| TMJ (jaw joint) assessment | Condyle shape and symmetry · bone changes at the joint · asymmetry | Clinical correlation with symptoms · MRI if soft tissue assessment needed |
| Gum disease monitoring | Generalised bone loss pattern and severity · localised bone defects around specific teeth | Establishes baseline bone level · guides periodontal treatment decisions |
| Extreme gag reflex | Provides jaw overview without intraoral film placement — no bite wing in the mouth | OPG used as primary X-ray when patient cannot tolerate intraoral film |
| Children — development check | All developing permanent teeth · eruption sequence · congenitally missing teeth · jaw growth | Guides timing of orthodontic intervention · identifies teeth requiring monitoring |
Most patients who have never had an OPG are surprised by how quick and simple it is. There are no injections, no film placed in the mouth, and no pain.
Remove earrings, necklaces, hair clips and any metal objects from around or below the ears before your appointment. Metal objects within the X-ray field create bright artefacts (ghost images) that interfere with image quality. You do not need to remove hearing aids or dental implants. No food or drink restrictions.
You will stand (or be seated if standing is difficult) with your chin resting on a small chinrest. Your dentist or dental assistant positions your head carefully between the X-ray source on one side and the detector on the other. Correct positioning is critical — a misaligned head produces a blurry or distorted image that may need to be retaken. You will be asked to bite down on a thin plastic bite peg to hold your lower jaw in position. Remove any removable dentures or orthodontic appliances before positioning.
Once positioned, the clinician steps behind a screen or partition. The OPG machine arm rotates around your head from one side to the other in approximately 15–20 seconds. You must remain completely still during the scan — movement causes blurring of the image. The machine moves but does not touch you. You will hear a gentle humming sound during rotation.
Digital OPG machines (such as the one at Paynless Dental) produce the image immediately on screen — there is no film development. Your dentist reviews the image while you are still at the appointment or discusses findings at a separate consultation appointment. A report or copy of the image can be provided on request.
There is no recovery period. You can eat, drink and resume all normal activities immediately. The scan produces no lasting radiation in your body. Results are available immediately with digital equipment.
If you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant, inform your dentist or the dental assistant before the scan begins. OPG is not routinely recommended during pregnancy — especially in the first trimester — unless there is a genuine clinical need that outweighs the small risk. Where clinically necessary, a lead thyroid collar and lead apron are used to minimise foetal exposure. The radiation dose from a modern digital OPG (0.014 mSv) is extremely low, but avoidance during pregnancy is prudent wherever possible.
Your dentist selects the type of X-ray based on what clinical question needs to be answered. Most comprehensive assessments combine more than one type.
| OPG (ADA 037) | Bitewing X-Ray (ADA 022) | CBCT / 3D Cone Beam CT | |
|---|---|---|---|
| What it shows | Full jaw overview — all teeth, both jaws, bone, TMJ, sinuses | Interproximal areas between upper and lower back teeth — decay between teeth and bone crest level | 3D cross-sectional view of any anatomical region — bone volume, density, precise measurements |
| Best for | Wisdom teeth · implant overview · orthodontics · new patient assessment · jaw pathology | Detecting cavities between teeth · bone level at rear teeth · decay under existing fillings | Precise implant planning · bone grafting · complex wisdom tooth proximity to nerve · sinus assessment for implants |
| Radiation dose | ~0.014 mSv | ~0.005 mSv per film (4 bitewings ~0.02 mSv) | ~0.05–0.5 mSv depending on field of view |
| Scan duration | 15–20 seconds | ~2 seconds per film | 10–40 seconds for scan · longer for processing |
| Film placement | No intraoral film — machine rotates outside the head | Film or sensor placed inside the mouth | No intraoral film — machine rotates outside the head |
| Image type | 2D panoramic overview | 2D close-up of a specific area | True 3D — can view any cross-section |
| ADA item | 037 | 022 | Not a standalone ADA dental item — usually referred |
| How often taken | As clinically indicated — not on a routine schedule · typically every 3–5 years or when clinical question arises | Approximately every 12–24 months for average-risk adults | As clinically indicated — not routinely |
| Typical cost | $90–$150 at dental practice | $20–$60 per film at dental practice | $150–$400+ depending on field of view and location |
| Health fund | ✓ General dental extras | ✓ General dental extras | Varies — often excluded or partial cover |
| CDBS cover | ✓ ADA 037 covered | ✓ ADA 022 covered | Not covered |
Yes — for a comprehensive assessment, they are complementary. An OPG shows the broad picture (jaw, wisdom teeth, bone levels, pathology) but misses small interproximal cavities between teeth. Bitewing X-rays show these cavities in detail but cannot assess the whole jaw. For a new patient or after a significant gap, both types together give your dentist a complete picture. For implant planning specifically, a CBCT may follow the OPG to provide precise 3D bone measurements.
Radiation concern is one of the most common questions patients have about dental X-rays. Here are the facts.
| Source of Radiation Exposure | Approximate Dose (mSv) | Equivalent to OPG |
|---|---|---|
| Dental OPG (panoramic X-ray) | 0.014 mSv | — |
| Dental bitewing X-ray (single) | 0.005 mSv | About ⅓ of one OPG |
| Everyday background radiation (Australia, per day) | ~0.005–0.007 mSv | An OPG = ~2–3 days of background |
| Sydney–Melbourne flight | ~0.07 mSv | An OPG = 1/5 of one Sydney–Melbourne flight |
| Sydney–London flight | ~0.1 mSv | An OPG = ~1/7 of a Sydney–London flight |
| Chest X-ray (medical) | ~0.1 mSv | An OPG = 1/7 of a chest X-ray |
| Annual background radiation (Australia) | ~1.5–2 mSv/year | You’d need ~100+ OPGs to equal one year of background |
| Abdominal CT scan | ~8 mSv | An OPG = ~1/570 of an abdominal CT |
Source: Radiation dose figures from ARPANSA (Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency) and peer-reviewed dental radiography literature. See arpansa.gov.au for authoritative radiation guidance.
The typical cost of an OPG at a dental practice in Australia is $90–$150 (ADA 037). Health fund general dental extras cover OPG. CDBS covers OPG for eligible children. A written quote is provided before your appointment.
OPG X-rays (ADA 037) are covered under general dental on most private health fund extras policies. Your rebate depends on your fund and level of cover. At Paynless Dental, HICAPS processes your claim on-the-spot — you pay only the gap at the time of your appointment. Bring your health fund card. Typical out-of-pocket gap after fund rebate: approximately $30–$80 depending on your policy.
ADA item 037 (OPG) is covered under the Child Dental Benefits Schedule for eligible children aged 2–17 on Medicare. At Paynless Dental, CDBS OPGs are bulk billed at all three clinics — no out-of-pocket cost for eligible patients. We confirm eligibility at your child’s appointment. Up to $1,095 available across all covered dental services over two consecutive calendar years. See Services Australia — CDBS.
OPG X-rays taken at a standalone radiology centre (rather than in the dental practice) may be claimable through Medicare if your dentist provides a written referral. This pathway is available because radiology centres bill under the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS). At Paynless Dental, OPG is taken in-practice and billed under ADA 037 to your health fund. If you would prefer to attend a radiology centre for Medicare purposes, ask your dentist for a referral letter — some referral-centre OPGs are bulk billed or have reduced out-of-pocket cost. Note: OPGs for implant-specific detailed assessment are typically not Medicare-claimable.
If an OPG is required as part of dental treatment for a workplace injury, this may be covered under Workers Compensation (SIRA NSW). Your accepted claim and insurer pre-approval may be required. We provide treatment plans and itemised invoices for lodgement. See sira.nsw.gov.au.
Paynless Dental is a dental practice, not a financial adviser. Paynless Dental accepts OHFFSS vouchers and does not issue them. CDBS subject to Medicare eligibility. Workers Compensation subject to accepted claim and insurer approval.
An OPG (Orthopantomogram) is a single panoramic dental X-ray that captures all teeth, both jaws, the jaw joints (TMJ), surrounding bone and sinus structures in one image. It is also called a panoramic X-ray, OPT (Orthopantomogram) or Panorex. The scan takes approximately 15–20 seconds and does not involve any film placement inside the mouth. The machine arm rotates around the outside of your head. ADA item number: 037.
Yes. The radiation dose from a modern digital OPG is approximately 0.014 mSv — equivalent to a few hours of everyday background radiation from the environment, or about one-seventh of a chest X-ray. ARPANSA (the Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency) classifies dental panoramic X-rays as low-dose imaging. Digital OPG machines have reduced radiation dose by up to 30% compared to older film-based machines. There is no radiation remaining in your body after the scan.
At a dental practice in Sydney, an OPG (ADA 037) typically costs $90–$150. Written quote provided before your appointment at Paynless Dental. Health fund general dental extras rebates apply — HICAPS on-the-spot. Typical out-of-pocket gap after health fund: $30–$80 depending on your policy. CDBS covers OPG for eligible children aged 2–17 at no out-of-pocket cost at all three Paynless Dental clinics. OPG at a standalone radiology centre with a dentist referral may be claimable through Medicare. Call (02) 8677 9094.
Yes — most private health fund extras policies include OPG (ADA 037) under general dental. Rebates vary by fund and level of cover. HICAPS on-the-spot at all Paynless Dental clinics — bring your card and pay only the gap. CDBS covers OPG for eligible children aged 2–17. Check your specific policy before your appointment or ask us to process a quote via HICAPS. Call (02) 8677 9094.
Yes. ADA item 037 (OPG) is covered under the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) for eligible children aged 2–17 on Medicare. At Paynless Dental, CDBS OPGs are bulk billed at all three clinics — no out-of-pocket cost for eligible patients. We confirm eligibility at the appointment. See Services Australia — CDBS. Call (02) 8677 9094.
OPG is not routinely recommended during pregnancy, particularly in the first trimester. If clinically necessary, it can be performed with a lead thyroid collar and lead apron to minimise exposure. The dose (0.014 mSv) is very low, but avoidance is prudent wherever possible. Always inform your dentist and the clinical staff if you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant before the scan begins. Discuss the clinical necessity and timing with your dentist.
An OPG is a panoramic overview showing all teeth, both jaws, jaw joints and surrounding bone in a single image — ideal for wisdom teeth assessment, implant planning and new patient baseline. Bitewing X-rays are close-up images of the back teeth showing interproximal areas between upper and lower teeth — the best tool for detecting small cavities between teeth and monitoring bone levels at the rear. They are complementary, not interchangeable — most comprehensive assessments use both.
An OPG is a two-dimensional panoramic overview. A CBCT (Cone Beam CT) is a three-dimensional scan that allows cross-sectional views in any plane — essential for precise implant placement, bone grafting assessment and detailed wisdom tooth nerve proximity. CBCT provides far more detail but involves higher radiation (0.05–0.5 mSv depending on field of view) and higher cost ($150–$400+). OPG is typically taken first; CBCT follows when precise 3D measurements are required for specific treatment planning.
The most common clinical reasons for an OPG are: wisdom tooth assessment (position, depth, nerve proximity) · dental implant overview · orthodontic records (braces) · new patient baseline · denture construction · suspected jaw pathology (cysts, tumours, fractures) · TMJ assessment · gum disease/bone loss evaluation · severe gag reflex preventing intraoral X-rays · developmental assessment in children. Your dentist’s specific reason should be explained at the time of referral — ask if you are unsure.
An OPG shows all teeth in both jaws — including unerupted and impacted teeth — but at reduced resolution compared to intraoral X-rays. It is an overview, not a detail view. Small interproximal cavities between adjacent teeth may not be visible on OPG and require bitewing X-rays for detection. OPG magnifies images by approximately 20–30%, so apparent tooth sizes and distances are not true-to-scale. For fine detail (root canal anatomy, exact bone measurements for implants), additional X-rays or CBCT are needed.
Minimal preparation is needed. Remove all jewellery and metal objects below the ear level before arriving — earrings, necklaces, hair clips, piercings. Remove removable dentures or orthodontic appliances before the scan. No food or drink restrictions. Inform staff if you are pregnant. No injections or numbing agents are used. The scan itself takes 15–20 seconds. Most OPG appointments including positioning and image review take 5–10 minutes total.
Unlike bitewing X-rays (typically every 12–24 months for average-risk adults), there is no fixed schedule for OPG. It is ordered when there is a specific clinical indication — not routinely at every check-up. Most patients who are not undergoing active treatment have an OPG every three to five years, or when a new clinical question arises (e.g. before implants, braces or wisdom tooth removal). Your dentist recommends an OPG when the diagnostic benefit justifies it.
All dentists at Paynless Dental are AHPRA-registered General Dentists who take and interpret OPG X-rays as part of comprehensive treatment planning. Choose your preferred dentist when booking — subject to availability. Verify registration at ahpra.gov.au →
BDS (Manipal University, 2004) · Further training in Dental Implantology & Progressive Orthodontics · 20+ years · Clinical Reviewer
✓ Accepting New Patients
Toongabbie · North Ryde · Blacktown
BDS (JCU) · PG Dip. Implantology · PG Dip. Orthodontics
✓ Accepting New Patients
Toongabbie only
BDS · FICOI USA · 23+ years
✓ Accepting New Patients
Toongabbie · North Ryde
His overseas Masters Prosthodontics is not an AHPRA-ratified specialist qualification.
BDS (MUHS India, 2007) · Invisalign Provider · 17+ years
✓ Accepting New Patients
Toongabbie only
Her overseas MDS in Orthodontics is not an AHPRA-ratified specialist qualification.
Affiliated partner clinic. Call ahead to confirm OPG availability.
OPG stands for Orthopantomogram — from Greek ortho (straight) + panto (all) + gram (image). It is also called a panoramic dental X-ray, OPT (Orthopantomogram), or Panorex (a brand name). All refer to the same type of scan. ADA item number in Australia: 037.
No. An OPG involves no injections, no film placement inside the mouth and no direct contact with the patient beyond gentle positioning of your chin on a rest. You bite softly on a thin plastic peg to hold the lower jaw in position. The machine rotates around the outside of your head. Most patients find it significantly more comfortable than intraoral (bitewing) X-rays.
The scan itself takes approximately 15–20 seconds. Total appointment time including preparation, positioning, scan and image review is typically 5–10 minutes. At Paynless Dental, digital OPG produces the image immediately on screen — no film development delay.
Remove all jewellery and metal objects from below the ear level before arriving — earrings, necklaces, hair clips, facial piercings. Remove removable dentures or orthodontic appliances before the scan. Dental implants, fixed bridges and hearing aids do not need to be removed. No food or drink restrictions — you can eat and drink normally.
A modern digital OPG produces approximately 0.014 mSv of radiation. This is equivalent to a few hours of everyday background radiation from the environment, or approximately one-seventh of a standard chest X-ray. ARPANSA (Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency) classifies dental OPG as low-dose imaging. Digital OPG machines have reduced dose by up to 30% compared to older film-based equipment.
Yes. OPG is commonly taken in children from around age 6–7 when mixed dentition begins, and is a standard part of orthodontic records in teenagers. The dose is low (0.014 mSv). The diagnostic information — for assessing developing permanent teeth, detecting congenitally missing teeth and planning orthodontic treatment — is difficult to obtain by other means. CDBS covers OPG (ADA 037) for eligible children aged 2–17 at no out-of-pocket cost at all three Paynless Dental clinics.
Yes — an OPG is the standard first imaging step before dental implants. It shows available bone height, sinus floor location, mandibular nerve position, adjacent tooth roots and overall jaw condition. For precise implant placement planning, a CBCT (3D cone beam CT) scan typically follows the OPG to provide exact bone volume and density measurements in three dimensions.
OPG is not taken on a routine annual schedule. It is ordered when there is a specific clinical indication — wisdom tooth assessment, implant planning, orthodontic records, suspected pathology, new patient baseline, or when a clinical question arises that cannot be answered by intraoral X-rays alone. Most patients who are not undergoing active treatment have an OPG approximately every 3–5 years, or when a new clinical need arises.
Prepared by: Paynless Dental Editorial Team Clinical review: Dr Payal Gupta · Principal Dentist · AHPRA Registered Dentist
Reviewed: July 2026 · Next scheduled review: July 2027
This page provides general educational information about panoramic dental X-rays (OPG) based on ARPANSA radiation data, Australian Dental Association clinical guidelines, and peer-reviewed dental radiography literature. ADA item number 037. CDBS information sourced from Services Australia. Radiation dose figures sourced from ARPANSA. For independent guidance see Healthdirect — Dental X-Rays and ARPANSA. Individual patient testimonials are not reproduced in compliance with AHPRA advertising guidelines.
Information on this page is provided for general educational purposes and is not a substitute for personalised dental advice. Clinical indications for OPG vary between patients — your dentist determines whether an OPG is appropriate for your individual circumstances. Radiation dose figures are approximate and based on published ARPANSA data and peer-reviewed literature. Prices are indicative — written itemised quote before appointment. CDBS subject to Medicare eligibility determined by Services Australia. Workers Compensation subject to accepted claim and insurer approval. Paynless Dental is not a financial adviser. Individual patient testimonials are not reproduced in compliance with AHPRA advertising guidelines. © 2026 Paynless Dental.
