The cephalometric x-ray is a unique tool which enables the dentist to capture a complete radiographic image of the side of the face. X-rays in general offer the dentist a way to view the teeth, jawbone, and soft tissues beyond what can be seen with the naked eye. Cephalometric x-rays are extraoral, meaning that no plates or film are inserted inside the mouth. Cephalometric and panoramic x-rays display the nasal and sinus passages, which are missed by intraoral bitewing x-rays.
Cephalometric X-Ray Functions
Cephalometric x-rays are usually taken with a panoramic x-ray machine. The adapted machine will have a special cephalometric film holder mounted on a mechanical arm. An x-ray image receptor is exposed to ionizing radiation in order to provide the dentist with pictures of the entire oral structure. The advantage of both cephalometric and panoramic x-rays is that the body is exposed to less radiation.
Cephalometric x-rays are not as common as full sets or bitewing x-rays, but they serve several important functions:
- Provide views of the side profile of the face
- Provide views of the jaw in relation to the cheekbone
- Provide information about bad bites or malocclusions
- Allow measurement of the teeth
- Identify fractures and other injuries to the teeth and jawbone
- Assist in orthodontic planning
How Are Cephalometric X-Rays Taken?
Cephalometric x-rays are completely painless. The head is placed between the mechanical rotating arm and the film holder, which is placed on another arm. The arm rotates around the head capturing images of the face, mouth, and teeth. The clarity and sharpness of these images will depend on the positioning of the body. The images are usually magnified up to 30%, so any signs of decay, disease, or injury can be seen and treated.
After capturing cephalometric x-rays, the dentist will be able to see a complete side profile of the head. This can assist in orthodontic planning and allow an immediate evaluation of how braces might impact the facial profile and teeth. Another common use for this type of x-ray is to determine specific measurements prior to the creation and placement of dental implants.
If you have any questions or concerns about cephalometric x-rays, please ask your dentist.
Why Cephalometric X-Rays
Matter
At South Suburban Family Dental in Blue Island, IL, cephalometric x-rays play an important role in two of the services our practice is most committed to providing at the highest level: orthodontics and dental implants. Our doctor has completed continuing education specifically in both of these areas, and cephalometric imaging is one of the diagnostic tools that supports the precise, personalized treatment planning that produces reliable, long-lasting results for our patients.
For orthodontic patients, cephalometric x-rays provide our doctor with a detailed understanding of how the teeth, jaw, and facial bones relate to one another before treatment begins. This information makes it possible to develop an orthodontic plan that not only straightens the teeth but also accounts for the impact of tooth movement on the overall facial profile and bite relationship. Planning orthodontic treatment without this level of diagnostic detail is simply less accurate, and at South Suburban Family Dental, we believe our patients deserve the most thorough evaluation available before any treatment begins.
For implant patients, cephalometric imaging supports the precise measurements and spatial awareness needed to plan implant placement safely and accurately. Understanding the exact dimensions and positioning of the jaw prior to surgery helps our doctor place implants with greater confidence and minimizes the risk of complications during and after the procedure.
If you have questions about whether cephalometric x-rays are appropriate for your specific treatment needs, our team at South Suburban Family Dental in Blue Island, IL is always happy to explain what each type of imaging involves and why it is being recommended for your care.