Orthopantomograms (OPGs) use X-rays to create a panoramic, wide-view image of your lower face, teeth, and jaw. This imaging is non-invasive, quick, and highly effective for diagnosing dental and jaw-related issues.

Our advanced equipment moves gently around your face, capturing a series of high-quality, two-dimensional images from multiple angles. These images are then compiled using state-of-the-art technology into a detailed panoramic view, which our radiologist analyses to prepare an accurate diagnostic report.

Dental X-rays play a crucial role in maintaining your oral health. They help:

• Monitor the health of teeth, gums, and jawbones
• Diagnose hidden cavities and decay
• Detect gum disease, cysts, and tumours
• Identify fractures or abnormalities in teeth and jaw development
• Assist in treatment planning for orthodontics and oral surgery

Regular dental X-rays are a routine yet vital procedure for early detection and prevention of serious dental conditions, ensuring optimal care for your oral health.

No specific preparation is needed for dental X-rays. However, you may be asked to remove any items around your face and neck, such as jewellery, glasses, or metal accessories. Our radiographer will guide you through this process during your appointment.

To ensure a smooth experience, we recommend arriving 5-10 minutes early. This allows time for any questions you may have to be addressed and for us to confirm your referral details.

What to expect

At Precious Health Radiology, we strive to ensure your appointment is as comfortable and stress-free as possible. Our welcoming and calming waiting and examination rooms have been designed to feel less like a clinic and more like home.

When you arrive
You’ll be greeted by one of our friendly medical receptionists, who will assist with any questions and confirm your referral details. Our radiographer will then introduce themselves and guide you to the dental X-ray room, a clean and sterile medical space equipped with advanced imaging technology and seating for family, friends, or carers. Wheelchairs are available upon request to assist with mobility.

During the procedure

• The radiographer will explain which items around your face and neck—such as glasses, jewellery, hearing aids, hairpins, or removable dental work—may need to be removed. A box will be provided for your belongings, and a gown will be offered if required.
• You’ll be invited to sit comfortably in the dental X-ray chair. If you need assistance, please let us know.
• To position your teeth and jaw correctly, you’ll gently place your head on a chin rest and bite on a sterile plastic mouthpiece. You’ll be asked to remain still to ensure the best image quality.
• The equipment’s rotating arm will move around your face without touching you. The process is quick, relatively quiet, and painless, taking approximately 10-60 seconds to complete.

The radiographer will assess the images on the spot to confirm they meet our high-quality standards. Throughout the procedure, they’ll explain each step, answer any questions, and ensure you are comfortable at all times.

After the procedure
Once the imaging is complete, you can replace any items that were removed, and you’ll be ready to continue your day.

To ensure a smooth and efficient appointment, please bring the following:

• Your referral from your healthcare provider
• An up-to-date Medicare card
• Any relevant healthcare, pension, or student cards

For a seamless Medicare rebate, we recommend linking your debit card to Medicare beforehand to avoid any delays with refunds.

Your images will be carefully reviewed by one of our radiologists, and a detailed report will be prepared for your referring health practitioner within 4-5 business days (excluding emergencies).

The report will be sent directly to your referring provider via fax or email. To ensure timely follow-up and care, please have an appointment booked with your referring health practitioner after they receive your results.

Your safety and well-being are our top priorities. Dental X-rays are a painless and non-invasive procedure. While they do use radiation, the exposure from a single dental X-ray is minimal—less than the amount typically received in a single day.

If you are pregnant or think you might be, please inform our radiographer. We will take additional precautions to minimise radiation exposure to your unborn baby or recommend an alternative procedure if needed.

Our safety practices include:

• Sanitising patient beds and chairs with medical-grade wipes between appointments
• Radiographers wearing surgical masks during all procedures
• Strict sick leave policies for staff experiencing cold, flu, or gastro-like symptoms

We kindly ask all visitors to wear a face mask, which we can provide upon request. If you are feeling unwell with cold, flu, or gastro-like symptoms, please reschedule your appointment for a later date to ensure the safety of all patients and staff.

This service is bulk-billed for patients with a valid Medicare card.

For non-Medicare card holders, we accept the following payment methods:

• Cash
• All major credit cards
• EFTPOS

If you have any questions about fees or payment options, please feel free to contact our friendly reception team before your appointment.

You will receive an SMS, email and a courtesy call in the lead-up to the appointment; we reserve the right to cancel if we are unable to confirm your attendance.

We understand that it is sometimes necessary to cancel or reschedule – please call us to do so. Appointments not attended will incur a $20 administration fee, billed at your next appointment.

Please reschedule if you are experiencing any cold, flu or gastro-like symptoms.