How Often Are OPG X-Rays Taken and Why? - Crystal Radiology. (02) 8315 8292
Author : crystal radiology | Published On : 25 Feb 2026
When it comes to understanding your dental health, a quick look in the mirror is not enough. Many dental problems develop beneath the gums, inside the jawbone, or around impacted teeth. That’s where OPG X-rays taken at Crystal Radiology play a vital role.
An OPG (Orthopantomogram), also known as a panoramic dental X-ray, provides a full view of your teeth, jawbones, sinuses, and jaw joints in a single image. In this guide, we explain how often OPG X-rays are performed, why they are recommended, and how they support early diagnosis and treatment planning at Crystal Radiology.
What Is an OPG X-Ray?
An OPG X-ray is a wide-angle digital scan that captures:
- Upper and lower teeth
- Jawbones
- Jaw joints (TMJ)
- Sinuses
- Bone levels around teeth and implants
Unlike small intraoral X-rays that focus on one or two teeth, an OPG provides a complete overview of your mouth in just seconds.
At OPG, X-rays taken at Crystal Radiology, we use advanced digital imaging systems that produce clear, high-resolution images while keeping radiation exposure extremely low.
How Often Are OPG X-Rays Taken?
The frequency depends on your age, symptoms, and dental history. Here’s a general guide for patients in Australia:
1. Children (Around 8 Years Old)
For children, an OPG is often taken around 8 years of age during the mixed dentition stage. This is when:
- Baby molars and canines are still present
- Adult front teeth and 6-year molars have erupted
An OPG helps check:
Whether permanent teeth are developing properly
- If there is crowding
- Delays in tooth eruption
- Jaw shape concerns
This early scan can identify the need for orthodontic treatment before problems become severe.
2. Young Adults (Around 18 Years Old)
At approximately 18 years of age, an OPG is recommended to assess:
- Presence and position of third molars (wisdom teeth)
- Risk factors for wisdom tooth removal
- Proximity of lower wisdom teeth to the nerve trunk
- Position of upper wisdom teeth in relation to the sinus
This information is crucial before surgical removal. OPG X-rays taken at Crystal Radiology provide detailed digital images that help dentists assess surgical risk and plan safely.
3. Adults with Gum Disease
For patients undergoing gum treatment, bone levels need regular monitoring. In some cases, an OPG may be taken:
Yearly, if there is active gum disease
More frequently, if there are complications
Monitoring bone support around teeth helps prevent tooth loss and ensures treatment is working effectively.
4. Patients with Jaw Pain or TMJ Issues
An OPG can show the shape and position of the jaw joints during opening and closing. It may be recommended if you experience:
- Jaw clicking
- Jaw locking
- Facial pain
- Difficulty chewing
These views help assess temporomandibular joint (TMJ) conditions.
5. Trauma or Jaw Changes
If you have had:
- A fall or injury to the jaw
- A history of facial trauma
- Unusual swelling or bone changes
An OPG is ideal for initial assessment. It provides a broad overview of the jaw structure and can guide further imaging if needed.
6. Routine Screening
If you have no symptoms or dental history concerns, an OPG may be taken approximately every five years as a screening tool.
However, if you have ongoing dental problems, your dentist may recommend a shorter interval.
Additional Benefits of OPG X-Rays
✔ Ideal for Patients with a Strong Gag Reflex
Some people struggle with small X-ray sensors placed inside the mouth. Because an OPG is taken externally, it is far more comfortable.
✔ Sinus Assessment
The position of the sinus is particularly important when planning upper jaw implants. Sometimes, OPG images may even prompt a referral to an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist.
✔ Implant Planning
Understanding bone levels and sinus position helps ensure successful implant placement.
✔ Digital Advantages
Modern OPG X-rays taken at Crystal Radiology offer:
- Image magnification
- Digital measurements
- Easy email sharing with specialists
- Clear visual explanation for patients
You can even see your “inner face” displayed on the monitor — helping you better understand your dental health.
Are OPG X-Rays Safe?
Yes. OPG X-rays use very low radiation levels, especially compared to older imaging systems.
At Crystal Radiology:
- Digital technology minimises exposure
- Protective lead aprons are used
- Special precautions are taken for children and pregnant women
- The benefits of early detection far outweigh the minimal radiation risk.
Why Choose Crystal Radiology?
When booking OPG xrays taken at Crystal Radiology, patients across Australia benefit from:
- Advanced digital panoramic imaging
- Fast and comfortable scanning process
- Clear, high-resolution images
- Experienced radiology professionals
- Reliable reporting for dentists and specialists
- We focus on patient comfort, safety, and accuracy in every scan.
Book Your OPG X-Ray Today at Crystal Radiology
Your dental health is about more than just visible teeth. A panoramic scan can reveal hidden concerns early — saving time, money, and discomfort in the future.
Please ensure that you have your Medicare card and referral with you and pop into our location for your consultation. If you have any questions at all, please feel free to contact us on (02) 8315 8292 as we are here to help.
