You all must have heard about X-rays. Everyone would have got one done at least once in their lifetime. Dentists use several X-rays to detect and diagnose diseases or conditions that are nonvisible to the naked eye. It helps them design appropriate treatment plans for the further course of action. But what is a cephalometric X-ray?
Kings Mountain General Dentist and their team offer cephalometric X-rays since they offer a large field of view including your teeth, jaw, and profile.
What is a cephalometric X-ray?
A cephalometric X-ray, often referred to as just a ceph, is a diagnostic radiograph that is primarily used for orthodontic treatment planning. This captures a complete radiographic image of the side of your face. These X-rays are also used by ENT doctors in cases of sleep apnea disorder since they provide a view of your airways.
Cephs are often taken using a panoramic machine, having a special cephalometric film holder mounted on a mechanical arm.
When is a cephalometric X-ray needed?
Cephalometric X-rays can be used by dentists to assess the following:
- Side profile of the face
- Impacted teeth
- Proper orthodontic treatment
- Temporomandibular joint problems
- Broken teeth or jaws
- Position of your jaws
- Some types of cancers
- Airway problems
- Malocclusions
Is a cephalometric X-ray safe?
X-rays can lead to apprehensions about radiation exposure. But with cephalometric X-rays, you need not worry since you would be exposed to a safe level of radiation. Also, necessary precautions like using lead aprons can further decrease radiation exposure to a greater level.
What are the benefits of cephalometric X-rays?
Cephalometric X-rays are modern innovations that offer the following benefits:
- Offer great accuracy and precision
- Painless technique
- The amount of radiation exposure is relatively low
- May be safe for pregnant women in an emergency using a protective lead apron
- Provide quick results
- This technique does not require biting or placing anything inside your mouth
- Improves the quality of dental treatments due to precise diagnostic information provided
Takeaway
It may be stressful to need X-rays, but you can rest assured that they are painless, and safe techniques with numerous benefits. The imaging technology offers incredible, and valuable information to dentists to guide their diagnosis and treatment recommendations. The invention of cephalometric X-rays has made a huge contribution to dentistry. Discuss your goals and concerns with your dentist to determine if you need a cephalometric X-ray!
