OPG Test

If your dentist has recommended an “OPG test,” you might be wondering what that means and whether you need to prepare. OPG stands for Orthopantomogram – it is a panoramic or wide-view X-ray of your entire mouth. Unlike a small dental X-ray that shows just one or two teeth, an OPG gives a single, comprehensive image of all your upper and lower teeth, the jawbones, the temporomandibular joints (TMJ), and the lower part of your sinuses. It is a routine, low-radiation scan that helps your dentist see problems that are not visible during a regular examination.

What Is an OPG Test?

An OPG (Orthopantomogram), also called a panoramic radiograph, is a two-dimensional X-ray of the entire mouth. The machine rotates around your head in a wide arc, producing a flat image that shows all your teeth in both jaws, the jaw bones, parts of the temporomandibular joints, and even the maxillary sinuses. Unlike bitewing or periapical X-rays that focus on specific teeth, the OPG gives a bird’s-eye view – but it cannot show fine details like early cavities or root contours.

Why Might Your Dentist Recommend an OPG?

Dentists and oral surgeons order an OPG test for several common reasons:

• Impacted wisdom teeth – to see if wisdom teeth are trapped under the gum or pressing on neighbouring teeth.
• Jaw pain or trauma – to check for fractures, dislocations, or other bone abnormalities.
• Orthodontic planning – to assess jaw growth, tooth alignment, and the position of unerupted teeth before braces.
• Dental implant evaluation – to measure bone height and width in the jaw before placing implants.
• Suspected cysts or tumours – to detect abnormal growths in the jawbone.
• Periodontal (gum) disease – to evaluate bone loss around teeth in severe cases.

How Is the OPG Test Performed?

The test is straightforward and only takes about 20 seconds. Here is what happens:

1. You stand or sit inside the X-ray machine.
2. You rest your chin on a small support and bite down on a plastic peg to keep your head still.
3. A flat pan-like sensor rotates around your head, emitting a narrow X-ray beam.
4. You remain as still as possible while the machine completes one smooth rotation.

The process is painless – you will not feel the X-rays any more than during a chest X-ray. You will simply hear a low hum as the arm moves around you.

Do I Need to Prepare for an OPG?

No special diet or fasting is required before an OPG test. However, you will be asked to remove the following items that can distort the image or appear as false shadows:

• Metal jewellery (necklaces, earrings, nose pins)
• Eyeglasses
• Hearing aids
• Dentures or removable partials (unless your dentist advises otherwise)
• Bobby pins, hair clips, or any other metal in your head/neck area

If you are pregnant (or suspect you might be), inform the technician and your dentist. The test is generally avoided during the first trimester unless absolutely necessary because of potential risk to the developing baby. Let the clinic know before the test begins.

Is the Radiation from an OPG Safe?

Yes, the radiation dose from an OPG is very low. A typical panoramic X-ray gives a dose of about 0.01–0.03 millisier (mSv), which is roughly equivalent to a few days’ worth of natural background radiation (the radiation we all receive from the environment). This is comparable to the dose from two to four simple chest X-rays, and significantly lower than a dental CT scan or a medical CT of the head.

Because the dose is so low, the OPG is considered a safe screening tool for most patients. It is not recommended in early pregnancy unless there is a compelling clinical reason – but the risk is still minimal. If you are pregnant or suspect you might be, speak with your dentist so they can consider alternative imaging or postpone the test until after delivery. In all other situations, an OPG is a routine, low-risk procedure.

What Do the Results Mean?

After the test, a radiologist or a trained dentist will examine the image. An OPG can show:

• Impacted or unerupted teeth (including wisdom teeth)
• Bone loss due to gum disease
• Fractures of the jaw
• Infections or abscesses that extend into the bone
• Cysts, tumours, or other growths along the jawline
• The general health of your temporomandibular joints

Keep in mind that an OPG is a panoramic screening tool – it gives a broad view but can miss small cavities, early root decay, or fine root details. A regular check and smaller periapical (PA) X-rays may still be needed to confirm problems in the OPG image. Your dentist will discuss the findings with you and recommend the next steps. The OPG is not a standalone answer; it is part of a complete dental evaluation.

OPG Test Cost in Bangladesh

In Bangladesh, the cost of an OPG test varies depending on the type of facility, its location, and any extra services (such as a digital copy on CD or USB). The following approximate price ranges were in effect at the time of writing, but always contact the centre directly for a current quote.

Note: Prices change frequently and vary by season and institution. Always call the centre beforehand to confirm the current fee and whether any discount packages apply.

Where Can I Get an OPG Test in Bangladesh?

OPG tests are widely available across Bangladesh. You can find them at:

• Private diagnostic centres (e.g., Popular Diagnostic, Ibn Sina, Lab Aid, Medinova)
• Dental clinics with their own X-ray facility
• Dental college hospitals – public (like Dhaka Dental College, Chittagong Dental College) or private

Most cities – Dhaka, Chittagong, Sylhet, Khulna, Rajshahi, Rangpur, Barishal, and Mymensingh – have multiple options. Your dentist can usually tell you the nearest or most convenient one.

Find Dentist Doctors by Division in Bangladesh

If you need an OPG or any dental consultation, you can search for qualified dentists near you using the following directory links. These resources list dentists by division in Bangladesh.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is an OPG test painful?

No, an OPG test is completely painless. You simply stand or sit still while the machine rotates around your head. You may feel a slight pressure from the bite block or chin rest, but there is no discomfort. The entire process is non-invasive and takes only a few minutes.

Can I eat or drink before an OPG test?

Yes, you can eat and drink normally before an OPG test. No special dietary restrictions are needed. However, if your dentist also plans to take intraoral X-rays or perform other procedures, they may give separate instructions. Always follow the specific guidance provided by your clinic.

Is an OPG test safe during pregnancy?

Although OPG uses a very low dose of radiation, it is generally avoided during pregnancy unless absolutely necessary. If you are pregnant or suspect you might be, inform your dentist and gynecologist before the test. They will assess the risk versus benefit and may postpone the scan until after delivery or use additional shielding.

How long does an OPG test take from start to finish?

The actual scan takes about 10 to 20 seconds. Including positioning and preparation, the entire appointment usually lasts 5 to 10 minutes. You will receive the results almost immediately, as the digital image is available on screen right after the scan.

What is the difference between an OPG and a CBCT scan?

An OPG (panoramic X-ray) provides a two-dimensional, flat image of the entire mouth, jaw, and sinuses. A CBCT (cone beam computed tomography) scan gives three-dimensional, cross-sectional images with much more detail, especially useful for implant planning, root canals, or assessing bone structure. OPG is quicker, cheaper, and uses less radiation, while CBCT offers deeper diagnostic information when needed.

Sources

The following sources are from international journals, government health agencies, or recognized medical organizations:

• Panoramic Dental X-ray: What You Need to Know (mayoclinic.org)
• World Health Organization — OPG Test (who.int)
• MedlinePlus — OPG Test (medlineplus.gov)
• CDC — OPG Test (cdc.gov)
• NHS — OPG Test (nhs.uk)
• PubMed — OPG Test (pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)