Dental Imaging
OPG & Cephalometry
OPG (orthopantogram) is a panoramic view of the mouth, giving information of the teeth and bones of the upper and lower jaw. Cephalometry is used to obtain measurements and determine relationships of the structures of the lower face.
CT Dentascan
Your doctor has requested an examination that can help guide successful placement of dental implants. This examination is most often used to help plan the placement of osseointegrated implants. Dentascan produces a "roadmap" of jaw anatomy, to increase the likelihood of successful implant placement. More information can be gained from Dentascan than from routine studies, such as panoramic X-rays or linear tomography.
The first step in the Dentascan study is a brief CT scan of your jaw. We use computer technology to produce life-size filmed or SIM/Plant computer files that your doctor can use to see and precisely measure the anatomy.
Cone Beam CT
Cone Beam CT imaging provides high resolution 3D images and allows teeth and facial bones to be viewed in any plane. Cone Beam CT imaging is useful for examining impacted teeth, planning dental implants and assessing pathology and trauma.
Specialist Dental and Maxillofacial Reporting
Specialist Dental and Maxillofacial Reporting is a specialised area and our dento-maxillofacial radiology specialists bring their advanced experience and knowledge to the Noosa Community.
Preparing for your examination
OPG’s and Cephalometry scans do not require an appointment. Please be aware that Dentascan’s require an appointment. Please call us to arrange a time.
What to bring
- A referral from your GP or specialist
- Medicare card
- Pension/concession card
- Previous results from other clinics where you have had a Dental Scan for comparison
In most cases, no advance preparation is required. Eat normally and take medication as usual, unless your doctor or Noosa Radiology staff has given you other instructions.
Please tell us if you are pregnant.
What to Expect
You will be asked to remove:
- All metal objects including
- Jewellery
- Glasses
- Dentures
- Hearing aids
OPG & Cephalometry – In the imaging room you will be asked to stand with your chin resting on a small shelf to provide accurate positioning. For an OPG, you will be asked to bite gently on a covered mouth piece to steady your head.
CT Dentascan - In the imaging room you will be asked to lie on the CT table on your back. Your head will be placed on a head rest, your mouth piece if necessary will be placed into your mouth prior to the scan. During the examination your head will move in and out of the CT machine several times.
Our equipment utilises the latest radiation reduction techniques and the risks at these exposure levels are thought to be very small and outweighed by the information obtained by performing the scan.
When can you get your results?
The images obtained are digitally recorded. At Noosa Radiology our highly trained and qualified Radiologists interpret the images and provides a report for your doctor and/or referring health care provider within 24 hours, although usually 3 hours depending on the complexity of the scan.
You will be able to take your images on the day or collect them at a time that is convenient for you. You may need to make a follow up appointment to discuss the results with your referring practitioner.
We invite you to ask any additional questions you may have before or after your examination.