an x-ray image of teeth generated by an OPG x-ray machine

OPG dental x-ray of a patient showing endodontically treated tooth on the right molars

Example of OPG x-ray

Type of dental x-ray: Extra oral (no film/sensors are inserted in your mouth)

Duration: Varies depending on machine. Usually 8-15 seconds.

What can the dentist see:

  • Dental caries
  • Unerrupted wisdom teeth
  • Missing teeth
  • Bone levels that support your teeth
  • Signs of dental infection
  • Signs of root resorption
  • General position of inferior dental nerve
  • Presence/absence of extra teeth or pre-molars
  • Position and placement of dental implants
  • Submandibular gland stones
  • Temporo-mandibular joint
  • General overview of maxillary sinus