Cephalometric X-Rays

Family Dental of Lincoln utilizes cephalometric X-rays to help us view a complete image of the side of your face. These high-quality images allow our dentists to look not only at your teeth, but at your jaw and soft tissues. Give us a call at 773-561-5106 to learn more about cephalometric X-rays in Chicago, Illinois, and make your appointment with one of our experienced dentists.

Cephalometric X-rays are extraoral radiographs, meaning that they do not use plates or film inside your mouth. Instead, this machine has a special film holder mounted on a mechanical arm, which is used to capture images of your entire head, including the nasal and sinus passages, by rotating around your head. This unique tool allows us to get a view of your teeth, jaws, and soft tissue beyond what can be seen with visual examination. One of the great advantages of cephalometric X-rays is that they expose your body to less radiation than traditional X-rays.

Cephalometric X-rays are not as common as “full set,” or bitewing, X-rays, but they serve several useful purposes, including:

  • Providing views of the side profile of your face
  • Providing views of the jaw in relation to the cheekbone
  • Providing information about malocclusion, or bad bites
  • Allow for measurement of the teeth
  • Identifying fractures and other injuries or damage to the teeth and jawbone
  • Assisting in orthodontic planning

These X-rays are completely painless, and safe to use.

If you have questions or concerns about cephalometric X-rays, we welcome you to contact our office and speak with a member of our dental team.