Sink your teeth into dental health with an OPG scan

This August at Xplore, we’re focusing on dental health, in line with the Australian Dental Association’s (ADA) major annual oral health campaign, which kicked off with Dental Health Week.

Did you know we offer OPG scans at our Leeton Practice. An OPG, or dental X-ray, is a great way to get a detailed assessment of your dental health.

What is an OPG scan?

An OPG (Orthopantomogram) is a panoramic X-ray of the upper and lower jaws, including the teeth.  The scan will provide your dentist or orthodontist with a clear indication of the positions of all your teeth and their growth.

How an OPG scan works

Your dentist, orthodontist or doctor will refer you to our practice to get an OPG scan. You will need to stand or sit in front of the machine and will bite on a small plastic mouthpiece, which helps keep your head still during the scan. The machine will move around your head while taking the x-ray picture.

The whole process takes about five minutes.

Why get an OPG scan?

OPG scans are quick and easy, and they give us a clear picture of your teeth and jaws. They can help us diagnose problems such as tooth decay, impacted teeth and tumors.

If you’re due for a dental check-up, or if you’re experiencing any problems with your teeth or jaws, an OPG scan is a great way to get a clear picture of what’s going on.

What do I do with my results?

We’ll send a copy of your results to your dentist or doctor within 24 hours. You will need to make an appointment with them to get your results and discuss your next steps.

Other ways to look after your oral health

Of course, dental health isn’t just about getting an OPG scan. There are lots of things you can do to keep your teeth and gums healthy:

• brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste;
• floss daily
• eat a healthy diet; and
• visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and a teeth clean.

By keeping good oral health, you can help keep your smile looking great for years to come!   

Book here make an appointment for an OPG scan at our Leeton practice this August.