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What is an OPG X-ray and why does your dentist ask for one?
An OPG is a panoramic dental X-ray showing all teeth, jawbones, and jaw joints in one image. Learn what it shows, how to get one in Australia, and why it matters before a dental quote.
An OPG (orthopantomogram) is a panoramic dental X-ray that captures all your upper and lower teeth, jawbones, and jaw joints in a single wide-angle image. It is the first diagnostic image most dentists need before planning implants, bridges, or major restorations. In Australia, an OPG costs AUD 120–200 at a private clinic or radiology centre. At Picasso Dental Clinic in Da Nang, it costs AUD 17 as of May 2026.
What an OPG shows
An OPG (also called a panoramic X-ray or dental panoramic radiograph) is taken by a rotating X-ray unit that passes around your head while you stand still — the entire jaw is captured in one image.
| Structure | What the OPG shows |
|---|---|
| All upper and lower teeth | Position, root shape, decay, existing restorations |
| Jawbone (upper and lower) | Bone height, density (approximate), pathology |
| Temporomandibular joints (TMJ) | Joint structure and any obvious wear |
| Sinuses (upper jaw) | Proximity to upper posterior tooth roots |
| Nerve canal (lower jaw) | Approximate position of inferior alveolar nerve |
| Missing teeth | Gaps, impacted wisdom teeth, retained roots |
What an OPG does NOT show
- Bone width and depth — the OPG is a flat 2D image; width and density require CBCT
- Exact nerve position — OPG shows approximate nerve canal location; CBCT shows it precisely
- Early interproximal decay — decay between teeth is often visible only on bitewing X-rays
- Precise sinus floor height — approximate on OPG, measured exactly on CBCT
This is why a CBCT is required for implant planning — the OPG is a useful first step, not sufficient for surgery.
OPG cost comparison — Australia vs Vietnam
| Provider | OPG cost (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Australian private dental clinic | AUD 120 – AUD 200 |
| Australian radiology centre | AUD 100 – AUD 180 |
| Picasso Dental Clinic Da Nang | AUD 17 |
The OPG taken at Picasso on Day 1 is included in the consultation cost or charged at AUD 17 separately. If your Australian OPG is recent and complete, it may be used directly — saving the cost and time on arrival.
When an OPG is sufficient vs when a CBCT is needed
| Treatment | OPG sufficient? | CBCT required? |
|---|---|---|
| Dentures | Usually yes | Not required |
| Crowns and bridges | Usually yes | Not required |
| Veneers | Yes | Not required |
| Single tooth implant | Screening only | Yes — before placement |
| Multiple implants | Screening only | Yes |
| All-on-4 | Screening only | Yes |
| Bone graft assessment | Partial | Yes |
| Wisdom tooth assessment | Often sufficient | Sometimes required |
Picasso takes a CBCT (not just OPG) as the standard of care before any implant surgery. The OPG is a starting point — the CBCT is what the surgeon uses for precise planning.
How to get your Australian OPG before travelling
- Book an appointment with your Australian dentist and request an OPG for dental planning purposes
- Ask for a digital copy in JPEG or TIFF format
- If your dentist took an OPG at a recent checkup (within 12 months), ask for a copy — you do not need a new one
- Send to Picasso with your photo quote request — they will review it as part of your pre-travel assessment
Australian item code for OPG: 022 (panoramic radiograph). Check your private health fund — some extras plans include a rebate for this item code.
Related pages
- CBCT scan before dental implants — what it is and why you need it
- How to send dental photos for a quote
- Dental implants — procedure and AUD pricing
- Free AUD quote — upload your OPG
Frequently asked questions
Do I need an OPG before travelling to Vietnam for dental treatment?
Not necessarily — Picasso takes all required imaging on Day 1, including OPG and CBCT (for implant cases). But if your Australian dentist has taken an OPG in the last 12 months, send it to Picasso with your quote request. It speeds up the Day 1 assessment and Picasso can identify any obvious concerns (bone loss, existing pathology) before you book flights.
What is the difference between an OPG and a CBCT?
An OPG is a 2D panoramic X-ray — it shows bone height and tooth position but not width or depth. A CBCT (Conebeam CT) is a 3D scan that shows bone in all dimensions — height, width, and density. For implant planning, the CBCT is required because it shows nerve position and sinus proximity precisely. An OPG is sufficient for initial assessment; a CBCT is the standard of care for surgery planning.
Can I get an OPG at my Australian GP?
No — OPGs are taken at dental practices or radiology centres with a dental X-ray unit. Ask your dentist, or ask for a referral to a radiology centre. Some cities have independent radiology centres that accept self-referral for dental panoramic X-rays — search for 'dental OPG [your city]'.
How do I send an Australian OPG to Picasso?
Ask your dentist or radiology centre for a digital copy in JPEG or PDF format. Most modern imaging systems can export this. Email it to [email protected] or upload via the free quote form. If your practice uses digital imaging, they can export from their system in minutes — you do not need a physical film.