On this page we’ll discuss the importance of cephalometric x-rays within orthodontic diagnostics
In this edition of Dr. Karpac’s video series we are going to look at the process that goes into reading a cephalometric x-ray, and why these types of x-rays are important when you or your child are beginning the initial stages of orthodontic treatment.
A cephalometric x-ray is from the side of an individual’s head, so it provides a comprehensive profile image that helps our team recognize a patient’s facial structure and any misalignment or irregularities between the jaw bones and an individual’s bite.
On the particular cephalometric x-ray we see in this video, Dr. Karpac goes over his routine analysis process and explains how this image entails a young child’s underbite that will need adjustments as the patient’s permanent teeth start to erupt.
What Else do Cephalometric X-Rays Show?
Cephalometric x-rays have multiple uses within orthodontics, which is why it’s important to have a thorough understanding as to exactly how these types of x-rays can help you or your child.
Besides showing jaw and bite misalignments, cephalometric x-rays also indicate a the overall relationship a patient’s jaws and teeth have to their soft tissues and the entirety of their skull. This can be especially useful as our team looks for any impacted teeth that can raise potential issues over time.
Cephalometric x-rays will often times provide a better picture for orthodontists as they look for any jaw joint issues and examine the overall health of a patient’s jawbones. There are countless orthodontic issues that simply aren’t visible to the naked eye or other x-ray angles, so by looking at a patient’s facial profile and entire skull we can obtain a more thorough diagnostic analysis.
Why Use Cephalometric X-Rays?
One of the most important reasons why cephalometric x-rays are used in our diagnostic routines is because they assist with locating the causes of certain issues that other x-rays can’t spot. The morphological analysis obtained in a cephalometric x-ray is second to none, and it ultimately helps us identify any pathologies that need to be addressed.
Cephalometric x-rays are also more comprehensive in terms of identifying the root cause of certain malocclusions, because this profile angle will help our team determine if a malocclusion was rooted in alveolar or skeletal deviations. When there are certain skeletal discrepancies that lead to malocclusions, a cephalometric x-ray will assist our team in terms of adequately identifying if there are certain dysplastic development issues or dento-alveolar compensation problems.
All of this detailed information helps us in terms of devising our treatment strategies, and cephalometric x-rays also have a good amount of predictive power that helps us to know how a patient’s oral health will develop into the future.
A Predictive Diagnostic Tool
A main reason why cephalometric x-rays are so useful within orthodontics is because it will help us predict a patient’s facial growth. Orthodontic treatment after all takes quite a long time, so we must always take facial growth into consideration so we can understand what may happen throughout the entirety of every patient’s treatment plan.
By looking at a patient’s mandibular structures at a profile angle, our team will be able to accurately estimate how a patient’s jawbones will grow. We’ll also be able to better understand the unique possibilities in terms of a patient’s future teeth movement and rotation.
Contact us to Schedule Your Initial Consultation
Cephalometric x-rays are just a small part of what will occur in the initial stages of a patient’s orthodontic treatment, and we’ll always be sure to keep you informed in terms of why we conduct certain methodology throughout the entirety of your treatment.
We hope you’re all staying safe and healthy, and as always feel free to contact us for more information or if you have any questions.