Home » CBCT OPG Difference: Do You Need Both?
The CBCT OPG difference
As radiology and multi-disciplinary clinics expand into dental, ear nose and throat (ENT), and orthopaedic imaging, one question often arises: What is the CBCT OPG difference, and should you invest in both? Understanding the strengths of each system helps you make the right decision for your clinic, workflow, and budget.
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Title: CBCT OPG Difference: Do You Need Both?Duration: 04:49
Sam, Medic Cloud Managing Director
CBCT – The specialist’s 3D power tool
CBCT (Cone Beam CT) delivers ultra-high-resolution 3D images for advanced diagnostics. It is perfect for:
- Implant planning with millimetre accuracy
- TMJ studies
- Airway and sinus analysis
- ENT diagnostics
- Maxillofacial and trauma evaluation
The Carestream CS 9600 offers both 2D and 3D imaging with configurable fields of view, making it a versatile choice for clinics that need flexibility.
OPG – The panoramic generalist
An OPG (Orthopantomogram) provides a wide, 2D view of the entire mouth, including teeth, jaw, and surrounding structures, in a single image. It is fast, easy to operate, and ideal for:
- General dental assessments
- Orthodontic planning
- Wisdom tooth evaluation
- Pre-operative screening
OPG suits high-throughput dental and GP-led clinics where time and cost-efficiency matter. We often recommend the Carestream CS 8100 OPG for clinics starting out or needing a reliable 2D imaging solution.
Carestream solutions we offer at Medic Cloud
Do you need both CBCT and OPG?
In many cases, yes. OPG handles routine, low-dose imaging for screening and referrals, while CBCT supports complex, high-value cases where 3D data is essential. Some clinics start with OPG and add CBCT as demand grows, while others choose hybrid systems that offer both from day one.
Planning and support
Installing CBCT or OPG requires careful planning, including:
- Room size and layout
- Electrical requirements
- Radiation shielding and licensing
- PACS/RIS integration
- Connectivity to referrers and radiologists
Medic Cloud manages the entire process, ensuring compliance and smooth integration without delays or hidden costs.
Final thoughts
Understanding the CBCT OPG difference helps you expand diagnostic capabilities, improve patient outcomes, and keep more imaging in-house. Still unsure which option suits your clinic?
Contact Medic Cloud today. We provide vendor-neutral advice and complete solutions tailored to your growth.
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