Introduction
Dental X-ray in Tweed Heads includes specialised imaging of the lower face, teeth, and jaws. These are special X-rays used to assess dental structure and alignment with accuracy.
An OPG provides a panoramic view of the mouth, teeth, and bones of the upper and lower jaws, while a Lat Ceph produces a lateral (sideways) view of the face. In Tweed Heads, these imaging techniques are commonly used for orthodontic planning and detailed dental assessment.
OPG
An OPG is a panoramic or wide view x-ray of the lower face, which displays all the teeth of the upper and lower jaw on a single film. It demonstrates the number, position and growth of all the teeth including those that have not yet surfaced or erupted. It is different from the small close up x-rays dentists take of individual teeth. An OPG may also reveal problems with the jawbone and the joint which connects the jawbone to the head, called the Temporomandibular joint or TMJ. An OPG may be requested for the planning of orthodontic treatment, for assessment of wisdom teeth or for a general overview of the teeth and the bone which supports the teeth.
Procedure
You may be asked to remove jewellery, eyeglasses, and any metal objects that may obscure the images. You will be asked to stand with your face resting on a small shelf and to bite gently on a sterile mouth piece to steady your head. It is important to stay very still while the x-ray is taken. You will not feel any discomfort during the procedure.
LAT CEPH
A Lat Ceph is a lateral or side view x-ray of the face, which demonstrates the bones and facial contours in profile on a single film. Lat Ceph x-rays are usually used in the diagnosis and treatment of orthodontic problems.
Procedure
During your dental X-ray in Tweed Heads, you may be asked to remove jewellery, eyeglasses, and any metal objects that could obscure the images. You will then be guided to stand with your head positioned against the machine, which will be adjusted for your comfort.
A pair of cone-shaped plastic supports are gently placed in each ear, similar to headphones, to align both ears and ensure an accurate side view of the face. This procedure is quick, safe, and does not cause any discomfort.
Please bring any previous X-rays with you on the day of your examination to assist with accurate comparison and diagnosis.