X-Ray Cephalometric
Most people have heard of an x-ray, but what exactly is a cephalometric x-ray? How is it different from other types of imaging? We’re here to guide you through this useful technology and spell out when and why it’s so helpful.
What Is a Cephalometric X-Ray?
X-Rays are a technology used in medicine and dentistry that involves directing radiation (x-rays) at an area of the body to create an image of it. Bone and tissue block radiation, causing structures to appear on film or digitally as black, white, and grey. Specially trained professionals are then able to interpret the resulting image.
Cephalometric x-rays (also called ceph x-rays or radiographs) show a side view of your head, exposing teeth, jaw, and surrounding structures. This technology is considered safe and often useful or necessary to help professionals evaluate and assist patients. This specific type of x-ray is used in diagnosis and treatment planning.
Cephalometric x-rays may be used by dental professionals to assess:
- Impacted teeth
- Proper orthodontic treatment
- Problems with your temporomandibular joint (TMJ)
- Broken teeth or jaws
- Position of your jaw
- Some cancers
- Airway problems
Cephalometric X-Ray vs. Standard X-Ray
Cephalometric x-rays utilize much of the same technology as standard x-rays but have some important differences. This type of x-ray is taken from outside your mouth and does not typically require biting down on any equipment. This view is incredibly useful for many situations as it offers a large field of view, including your teeth, jaw, and profile.
While x-rays can make some uneasy, it’s a good idea to focus on the fact that they offer unique insight into your condition and your body’s structure. The information cephalometric x-rays provide is often vital for medical and dental professionals to offer you the best possible care.
Cephalometric x-rays may be used for:
- Dental and orthodontic treatment planning: The use of cephalometric x-rays can expose disease or damage that are difficult or impossible to find during a normal dental examination. They offer a high level of precision to help guide your dental professional’s recommendations for your diagnosis and treatment. It’s standard practice to establish your oral health baseline and track developments via imaging technology.
- Obstructive sleep apnea: Sleep specialists often recommend imaging to diagnose this sleep condition that can restrict your airway while sleeping. Cephalometric x-rays expose soft tissues in addition to bone and tooth structures, making them useful for conditions affecting your throat or airway.
- Temporomandibular disorder (TMD): This condition affects your jaw (temporomandibular) joint, cartilage, or bone and can cause discomfort. Professionals may recommend cephalometric x-rays to diagnose the condition, track changes, or help guide treatment.
- Other conditions or injury: As this type of x-ray offers a wide view of your head, neck, and mouth, they may be recommended for various conditions and injuries. According to the American Dental Association, the use of x-rays depends on a patient’s health, age, risk factors, and symptoms. If you don’t understand why you need a cephalometric x-ray, consult your medical or dental professional for clarification.
