OPG X-Ray: Complete Guide to Procedure, Benefits & Cost
Author : city xray | Published On : 18 Feb 2026
Dental health plays a crucial role in overall well-being. Whether you are experiencing tooth pain, planning orthodontic treatment, or preparing for wisdom tooth extraction, your dentist may recommend an OPG X-ray. This advanced dental imaging test provides a complete panoramic view of your upper and lower jaws in a single scan. Many patients search for information about the OPG X-ray cost before booking an appointment, as understanding the pricing helps in planning dental treatment effectively.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explain everything about OPG X-ray, including its procedure, benefits, preparation, and how to find an OPG X-ray near me at a reliable diagnostic centre.
What is an OPG X-Ray?
An OPG (Orthopantomogram) X-ray is a panoramic dental scan that captures a wide image of the entire mouth. It includes:
- Upper and lower jaws
- All teeth
- Temporomandibular joints (TMJ)
- Sinuses
- Surrounding bone structures
Unlike traditional dental X-rays that focus on one or two teeth, an OPG X-ray provides a complete overview in a single image. This makes it extremely useful for diagnosing multiple dental conditions at once.
Why is an OPG X-Ray Done?
Dentists and oral surgeons recommend OPG X-rays for several reasons. It helps in identifying:
1. Impacted Wisdom Teeth
OPG scans clearly show the position of wisdom teeth and whether they are trapped under the gum.
2. Jaw Fractures or Injuries
It helps detect fractures in the jawbone after trauma or accidents.
3. Orthodontic Planning
Braces and aligner treatments require a full-mouth view to plan tooth movement.
4. Cysts and Tumors
Abnormal growths in the jaw can be detected early with this scan.
5. Dental Infections
Infections deep inside the bone or roots are easily visible.
Because it gives a broad and detailed image, OPG is often the first diagnostic step before advanced dental treatments.
OPG X-Ray Procedure
The OPG X-ray procedure is quick, painless, and non-invasive. Here’s how it typically works:
Step 1: Positioning
You will be asked to stand or sit in front of the OPG machine. A small plastic bite block may be placed between your teeth to keep your mouth steady.
Step 2: Machine Rotation
The X-ray machine rotates around your head in a semicircle. It captures a panoramic image of your entire mouth.
Step 3: Image Generation
Within seconds, the digital image appears on the computer screen for the dentist to analyze. The entire process usually takes less than 5 minutes. There is no pain, no injection, and no recovery time required.
OPG X-Ray Cost in Delhi
One of the most common concerns patients have is about the OPG X-ray cost. The price can vary depending on several factors:
- Location of the diagnostic centre
- Type of equipment used (digital or traditional)
- City and area
- Expertise of the dental radiologist
Average Cost Range
In Delhi, the OPG X-ray cost typically ranges between:
₹300 to ₹1000 Some advanced dental diagnostic centres may charge slightly more if they use high-end digital imaging systems.
Compared to other imaging tests, OPG X-ray is relatively affordable and provides significant diagnostic value.
How to Find OPG X-Ray Near Me
Searching for an OPG X-ray near me online is the easiest way to locate nearby diagnostic centres. However, choosing the right centre is equally important.
Here are some tips:
1. Check Reviews
Look for patient reviews and ratings to ensure quality service.
2. Verify Equipment
Modern digital OPG machines provide clearer images with lower radiation exposure.
3. Qualified Staff
Ensure that trained radiology technicians handle the procedure.
4. Compare Prices
Comparing the OPG X-ray cost at different centres can help you find affordable options.
Choosing a reputed diagnostic centre ensures accurate results and safe procedures.
Benefits of OPG X-Ray
OPG X-ray offers multiple advantages:
Comprehensive View
It shows the entire mouth in one image.
Quick Diagnosis
Helps detect multiple dental problems simultaneously.
Low Radiation
Modern digital systems use minimal radiation exposure.
Time-Saving
The scan takes only a few minutes.
Cost-Effective
The OPG X-ray cost is affordable compared to other advanced imaging tests.
Preparation for OPG X-Ray
One of the biggest advantages of OPG is that it requires minimal preparation.
Here’s what you should know:
- Remove metal objects like earrings, necklaces, or hairpins.
- Inform the technician if you are pregnant.
- Follow instructions during positioning to avoid blurry images.
No fasting or medication is required before the test.
Is OPG X-Ray Safe?
Yes, OPG X-ray is considered safe. The radiation exposure is very low, especially with digital machines. Diagnostic centres follow strict safety protocols to minimize exposure.
However, pregnant women should inform the technician beforehand so that extra precautions can be taken.
Who Should Get an OPG X-Ray?
You may need an OPG X-ray if:
- You have persistent tooth pain
- You are planning braces or aligners
- You need wisdom tooth removal
- You have jaw pain or injury
- Your dentist suspects a cyst or infection
It is suitable for both adults and children when recommended by a dentist.
OPG X-Ray vs Regular Dental X-Ray
FeatureOPG X-RayRegular X-Ray
Coverage: Full mouth, Single tooth
Tim : 5 minutes, a few minutes
Radiation: Low Low
Usage: Orthodontics, surgery planning, cavity detection
An OPG X-ray provides a broader diagnostic perspective, while regular X-rays focus on specific teeth.
Final Thoughts
An OPG X-ray is an essential diagnostic tool in modern dentistry. It provides a clear, panoramic view of your teeth and jaw, helping dentists detect issues early and plan effective treatments. The procedure is quick, painless, and requires no special preparation.
If you are planning dental treatment, understanding the X-ray cost and choosing a reliable diagnostic centre can help you make an informed decision. When searching for an OPG X-ray near me, always select a centre with modern equipment, experienced staff, and positive patient reviews. By prioritizing accurate diagnosis today, you can ensure better dental health and a confident smile tomorrow.
