Cephalometric
What Is a Cephalometric?
- It's an extraoral X-ray taken in profile — it shows the skull and the relationship between:
- Upper jaw (size, position)
- Lower jaw (size, position, angle)
- Teeth (inclination of front teeth)
- Skull base relationship to the jaws
- Soft tissues (lips, nose, chin)
Main Uses
Orthodontic Planning
- The primary use of cephalometric imaging. It allows the orthodontist to:
- Accurately diagnose the type of bite (Class I, II, III)
- Measure angles & proportions through cephalometric analysis
- Measure angles & proportions through cephalometric analysis
- Predict the final profile result
- Compare progress before–during–after treatment
Growth Monitoring in Children
Allows us to assess whether the child’s jaw growth is normal or requires intervention (e.g. pre-orthodontic treatment).
Complex Restoration Planning
In full mouth reconstruction cases, the cephalometric helps in planning the correct bite and final aesthetic result.
Main Uses
- Before starting orthodontic treatment (almost always)
- At the end of orthodontics, as a progress check
- In children aged 7+ for preventive orthodontic check
- Before orthognathic surgery (more complex cases)
- In suspected temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ)
The Procedure
Preparation
Remove jewellery, glasses, dentures and any metallic objects from the head area.
Positioning
You stand sideways at the machine (usually the right side toward the sensor). Special ear positioners hold your head steady. You wear a lead apron.
Exposure
Lasts a few seconds. You stay still, looking straight ahead and with your mouth closed in natural bite position
Immediate result:
The digital image is available immediately. The orthodontist then performs cephalometric analysis with specialised software that automatically calculates angles and distances
Benefits of Digital Cephalometric
- Low radiation dose (~0.01–0.02 mSv)
- Immediate result
- Digital analysis capability with specialised software
- Before/after comparison for progress assessment
- Easy electronic sharing with orthodontists or orthognathic surgeons
Often Combined with Panoramic
As part of a complete orthodontic assessment, we usually take BOTH a panoramic AND a cephalometric in the same appointment. The panoramic shows each tooth in detail; the cephalometric shows the jaw relationship.
Everything You Need to Know
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does the examination take?
The exposure itself: less than 1 second. The entire process (positioning + exposure): about 3–5 minutes.
Is it safe for children?
Yes. Digital cephalometric emits extremely low radiation and is safe for children. It’s actually very important for orthodontic assessment at around age 7.
Is it the same as a panoramic?
No. Panoramic shows all teeth from the front; cephalometric shows the skull profile from the side. Different goals: panoramic for tooth/jaw analysis, cephalometric for facial/jaw relationship analysis.
Is it required before braces?
Almost always yes. Without a cephalometric, the orthodontist cannot accurately analyse the jaw relationship and properly plan treatment.
Can I bring an old cephalometric from elsewhere?
Yes, if it’s recent (usually <12 months). In growing children, a new one may be needed if time has passed, to evaluate changes.
Does it show the soft tissues of the face?
Yes. The cephalometric also shows the outline of the nose, lips and chin — which is why it’s critical for predicting the final aesthetic outcome of orthodontic treatment.
Ready to Book Your Appointment?
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