Clinical radiological issues in orthodontic practice

Radiology has long played a critical role in the treatment planning of the orthodontic patient. The focus of this article is on common issues that confront the orthodontist and how a basic understanding of radiological techniques and simple radiological procedures can be used to resolve them. The article addresses the advantages and shortcomings of the two most common films, the cephalogram and the panoramic view, taken by orthodontists. It goes on, however, to discuss other views that can easily be taken in the private office to supplement these radiographs.