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An OPG is a single panoramic X-ray of all your teeth, both jaws and the jaw joints. It is commonly requested before wisdom tooth removal, orthodontics and implants.
Also called: OPG, Panoramic X-ray, Wisdom teeth X-ray, OPT, Full mouth X-ray
Find a clinic for your OPG
79 clinics offer bulk billing for dental X-ray — eligibility varies
Where to get an OPG
79 clinics across Melbourne and Victoria on Radly offer dental X-ray.
Clinics for an OPG on Radly
See all 79 →
What is an OPG?
An OPG (orthopantomogram) produces one wide, curved image showing every tooth, the roots, the upper and lower jaw bones, the sinuses and the jaw joints. It gives your dentist an overview that small in-chair X-rays can't.
You stand (or sit) at the machine and gently bite on a small plastic block to line up your teeth. The X-ray arm then rotates slowly around your head for about 15–20 seconds. You need to keep very still and rest your tongue on the roof of your mouth.
An OPG is a 2D overview. It is not as detailed for small cavities as bitewing X-rays, and when precise 3D measurements are needed, such as for implants or wisdom teeth close to a nerve, a CBCT scan may be requested.
Why your doctor might request an OPG
- Assessing wisdom teeth before removal
- Orthodontic assessment before braces or aligners
- Checking jaw pain, jaw joint problems or a jaw injury
- Planning dental implants or extractions
- Looking for infection, cysts or missing teeth
OPG: preparation, referral & Medicare
Preparing for your OPG
- No special preparation is needed.
- Remove earrings, necklaces, glasses, hair clips, hearing aids and removable dentures or plates.
- Bring your dentist's referral; results are usually sent straight to them.
- Tell the radiographer if you are or might be pregnant.
How long it takes: About 10 minutes
Referral, Medicare & bulk billing
Dentists, orthodontists and oral surgeons can refer you for an OPG. Medicare generally doesn't cover dental X-rays, except in some situations such as certain medical referrals, so billing varies between clinics and your health fund may contribute under extras cover. The clinic confirms billing when it confirms your booking request.
How it works
Get your referral
Most scans need a referral from your GP, specialist, or other health practitioner.
Compare clinics
Find clinics near you for your OPG and compare bulk billing, reviews, and location.
Send your request
Share your preferred timing and send the clinic your details and referral when available.
Clinic confirms
The clinic reviews your request and confirms your appointment and any preparation needed.
If the clinic hasn’t acknowledged your request after 24 hours, Radly will follow up. We check in by SMS during daytime hours where SMS is available and you haven’t opted out. Reply N if you haven’t been contacted and our team will follow up. Acknowledgment does not mean an appointment is booked.
OPG FAQs
Can I walk in for an OPG?
Many dental imaging clinics accept walk-ins with a referral. Sending a request first lets the clinic confirm a time.
Is an OPG covered by Medicare?
Usually not, as dental X-rays generally aren't Medicare-rebated. Some exceptions apply, and the clinic confirms billing for your referral.
Does an OPG show wisdom teeth?
Yes. It shows all four wisdom teeth, their roots and their position relative to nearby teeth and nerves.
Can children have an OPG?
Yes. OPGs are common in children and teenagers for orthodontic planning and checking developing teeth.
How do I book an OPG online?
Choose a clinic on Radly, select Dental X-Ray as your scan, add your preferred timing and attach your referral, then send your booking request. The clinic contacts you to confirm the appointment and any preparation.
How soon can I get an OPG?
Appointments for dental X-ray are walk-in or same day at most clinics, depending on the clinic and the exam. You can send a request on Radly at any time, and the clinic replies with its next available time.
Related scans
Helpful guides
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