Lateral Cephalometry
Lateral cephalometry is a type of medical imaging that uses X-rays to produce detailed images of the head and neck. It is often used in orthodontics, which is the branch of dentistry that focuses on aligning the teeth and jaws.
Lateral cephalometry involves taking an X-ray of the side of the head, which allows the dentist to see the teeth, jaws, and other structures in the head and neck. This type of imaging provides a lot of detailed information that can be used to diagnose and treat a wide range of orthodontic conditions.
One of the main uses of lateral cephalometry is to help dentists and orthodontists plan and monitor treatment for orthodontic conditions. The detailed images produced by this type of imaging can help the dentist see how the teeth and jaws are aligned, and whether the teeth are coming in properly. This information can be used to create a treatment plan that is tailored to the individual patient’s needs.
What is Lateral Cephalometry

Lateral cephalometry can also be used to monitor the progress of orthodontic treatment. The dentist can use the images produced by the test to see how the teeth and jaws are moving over time, and whether the treatment is having the desired effect. This can help the dentist make adjustments to the treatment plan as needed, in order to ensure that the patient’s teeth and jaws are properly aligned.
Overall, lateral cephalometry is an important tool in the field of orthodontics. It allows dentists and orthodontists to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions, and to monitor the progress of treatment. This type of imaging is safe and effective, and can provide valuable information that can help ensure that patients receive the best possible care.
Diagnosis and Treatment
As I mentioned earlier, lateral cephalometry is often used to help diagnose and treat a wide range of orthodontic conditions. The detailed images produced by this type of imaging can provide valuable information that can be used to create a treatment plan that is tailored to the individual patient’s needs.
Lateral cephalometry can also be used to monitor the progress of orthodontic treatment. The dentist can use the images produced by the test to see how the teeth and jaws are moving over time, and whether the treatment is having the desired effect. This can help the dentist make adjustments to the treatment plan as needed, in order to ensure that the patient’s teeth and jaws are properly aligned.
In addition to its use in orthodontics, lateral cephalometry may also be used in other medical specialties, such as otolaryngology (ear, nose, and throat medicine) and plastic surgery. The detailed images produced by this type of imaging can provide valuable information that can be used to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions affecting the head and neck.