Our services
Dental Imaging
We provide a comprehensive range of Dental Imaging and Reporting services. Some of these types of scans are called an OPG, Lat Ceph and Dentascan. Dento-Maxillofacial Reporting or ‘DMFR’ is a specialised area and our DMF Radiologists bring their advanced experience and knowledge to our patients.
What is Dental Imaging?
Dental imaging is used to provides important results to your dentist, orthodontist, or specialist. Diagnostic dental imaging can help provide early detection, which increases the chances of successful treatment and recovery. Diagnosis is very important, as undiagnosed conditions can result in complication or further disease in the affected area. The radiation dose in dental imaging is very low.
Dental x-rays are fast and provide important results to your dentist, orthodontist, or specialist. Dento-Maxillofacial Reporting or DMFR is a specialised area and our DMF Radiologists bring their advanced experience and knowledge.
Types of Dental Imaging
We provide a comprehensive range of Dental Imaging and Reporting services to help your doctor provide the best possible treatment.
An Orthopantomogram, or OPG, is a special type of x-ray that looks at the lower face, teeth, jaw joints and maxillary sinuses. It provides a panoramic or wide view which displays all the teeth of the upper and lower jaw on a single film. You will be asked to stand with your face resting on a small shelf and to bite gently on a sterile mouth piece for the imaging to be taken.
A Lat Ceph is a side view x-ray of the face, which demonstrates the bones and facial contours in profile on a single film. This is particularly useful to plan any orthodontic treatment that may be necessary.
You will be standing next to an image plate and a pair of cone shaped plastic supports will be positioned in each ear gently. This aligns both ears to ensure
that an exact side view of the face is obtained for your referrer.
A CT Dentascan is a specialised type of CT scan that uses special software to construct unique 3D pictures of your jaws and surrounding tissues. This is particularly useful in assessing the position of teeth and also for placement of dental implants. Images will be assessed by our Radiologists and the report will be forwarded on to your specialist.
About Your Test
Before your appointment
It is preferable for you to phone ahead and make an appointment.
You will need a referral from your doctor to make an appointment. Upon receiving your referral, our Bookings Team will be able to help assist you in finding a time that works for you to have your test done.
Your dentist or specialist may provide you with a special plate to wear during the scan. Please bring this to the appointment.
If you are pregnant or suspect that you may be, please tell your doctor or radiographer before the test is performed, as special precautions may be required.
On the day
A Dental examination can take from 20 – 30 minutes to complete, depending on the examination requested.
There is no preparation for dental imaging, all you need to do is arrive at the clinic at the time of your appointment where our healthcare team will explain the procedure.
You will be required to remove all jewellery or metallic items from the head and neck region, including any piercings, hair accessories, dentures or dental plates.
Please bring any previous imaging with you on the day of your examination. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to ask us!
After your appointment
After your scan you can go about your day as normal.
Your images will be looked over by our Radiologists and a secure report and copy of the images will be provided to your referring practitioner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Prior to your scan and to ensure optimal imaging, you may be asked to change into a gown. A change cubicle will be provided to ensure your privacy and you will be asked to bring your belongings will you, carry baskets are provided. You will be asked to place your belongings in a suitable location within the room for the duration of your scan. After your scan, you will be provided with a change cubicle to ensure your privacy. Please ensure you have all your belongings with you prior to leaving the department. If you accidentally leave anything behind, please contact our staff to advise and we will endeavour to locate your belongings and return them to you.
Our friendly reception staff will advise you on the cost of your procedure at the time of your booking. If your exam is Medicare eligible, you will be bulk billed.