We have a panoramic x-ray machine or orthopantomogram (OPG) at our clinic that serves for the production of large x-ray images of the head area. The images produced give a clear view of the bone and teeth in the upper and lower jaws, the genyantrum and the temporomandibular joint. This lets us make a clear assessment of the condition of the teeth, determine the position of the wisdom teeth, discover any superfluous teeth and other anomalies (cysts, tumours), and is essential for the analysis and application of dental implants. The instrument also allows other projections focusing in more detail on, for example, the genyantrum or temporomandibular joint. The instrument at our clinic is a modern digital instrument, the principal advantages of which include the lower dose of x-ray radiation (as much as 50 % less than traditional x-ray) and the possibility of viewing the images on computer. This is an enormous advantage during image analysis as the images are easier to read and selected areas can be enlarged. It also makes archiving easier. We produce OPG images for our own patients and for other dentists in the surrounding area on a contractual basis.
