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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.