In order to make a proper diagnosis of a patient’s bite, an orthodontist such as Dr. Renick will prescribed digital X-rays to evaluate each patient’s unique situation. These X-rays may include, but are not limited to, the panoramic (pan) X-ray and the lateral cephalometric (ceph) X-ray. These are both extra-oral images which are taken outside the mouth and are the most common initial X-rays taken in an orthodontic office.

The panoramic X-ray is a basic image taken during an orthodontic evaluation which shows the development of the teeth. This will show any baby or adult teeth present and where they are in the jaw. This X-ray travels around the head and provides a picture of both the top teeth and the bottom teeth. Due to the overlapping structures in this image, this film is not diagnostic for decay but is a key player in diagnosing orthodontic problems.

The lateral ceph shows the development of the jaws. This is taken when a jaw problem affecting the bite is suspected. It is a good representation of the relationship of the upper jaw to the lower jaw and can provide information about underbites and overbites.

Another image that may be taken would be a frontal ceph to assess facial symmetry.

A hand-wrist film can be used to judge the timing and growth of the long bones.

To learn more about digital X-rays in Sunbury and Highland, Ohio, and schedule your appointment at Renick Orthodontics, call us today at 740-936-5003!