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Basic Technical In the Industry Vocabulary Test

OPG

Also written as: OPG — Orthopantomogram

Abbreviation for orthopantomogram, a panoramic dental radiograph providing a two-dimensional view of the entire dentition and surrounding structures.

Full Definition

OPG (orthopantomogram) is the standard abbreviation for a panoramic dental X-ray that captures the full upper and lower jaw, all teeth, the temporomandibular joints, and the maxillary sinuses on a single film or digital image. It is also referred to as a dental panoramic tomograph (DPT) or panoramic radiograph. Editors should be aware that 'OPG' is often used generically even though OPG is a registered trademark of a specific manufacturer; some house styles prefer 'dental panoramic radiograph' or 'DPT' for neutrality. The acronym should appear in full on first use in formal publications.

Usage

Usage note: Expand to 'orthopantomogram (OPG)' on first use. Some editors prefer 'dental panoramic radiograph' to avoid reliance on a trademarked term.

In Context

  • "An OPG was requested to assess the position of the impacted lower third molars prior to surgical planning." — Oral surgery referral letter
  • "The OPG demonstrated generalised horizontal bone loss consistent with chronic periodontitis." — Periodontal assessment report

Also known as

dental panoramic radiograph DPT panoramic X-ray

Don't confuse with

periapical radiograph lateral cephalogram

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