OPG
Pronunciation: OH-pee-jee
Also written as: OPG — Orthopantomogram
Abbreviation for Orthopantomogram; a panoramic dental radiograph providing a broad overview of the jaws, teeth, and supporting structures used in implant treatment planning.
Full Definition
An OPG (orthopantomogram, also called an orthopantomograph or dental panoramic tomograph) is a two-dimensional extraoral radiograph that captures the entire dentition, alveolar ridges, sinuses, and mandibular canal in a single image. In implant dentistry it is used as an initial screening tool to assess available bone height, identify anatomical landmarks such as the inferior alveolar nerve and maxillary sinus, and monitor prosthetic outcomes at a population level. However, OPGs have known limitations including magnification distortion (typically 20–25%), geometric distortion, and the inability to provide buccolingual cross-sectional information. Editors should note that OPG is preferred over 'OPT' or 'DPT' in most contemporary implant journals.
Usage
Usage note: Expand on first use. 'OPG', 'OPT', and 'DPT' are used regionally; standardize to the journal's preferred abbreviation. Distinguish from CBCT, which provides three-dimensional data.
In Context
- "An OPG was taken as part of the pre-surgical workup to estimate residual bone height above the mandibular canal." — Treatment planning record
- "Note that 'OPT' should be standardized to 'OPG' throughout, as per the journal's style guide for radiographic terminology." — Copy-editing note