An OPG is a panoramic or wide view X-ray of the lower face, that displays all the teeth of the upper and lower jaw on a single film. It shows the number, position and growth of all the teeth including those that have not yet surfaced or erupted. Dentists may at times take images of an individual tooth or group of teeth, this is different in that it images all teeth in the jaw in succession.

A Lateral Cephalogram (or Lat Ceph) is an X-ray taken of the side of the face and jaw that includes soft tissue detail such as the chin and tip of the nose. Lat Cephs are usually used in the diagnosis and treatment of orthodontic problems such as overbites and under-bites.

Dental X-rays are conducted relatively quickly, patients spend approximately 5 minutes in the X-ray suite itself and no appointment is necessary. Our radiographer will help position you correctly in a standing position inside the X-ray machine. You will be asked to remove any jewellery on or around your head, face and neck. Having an OPG or Lat Ceph is painless, you should feel no pain during your scan.

Images are taken digitally and therefore are processed and delivered digitally to your referring doctor the same day.