Cephalometry

(Also known as: teleradiogram, cephalometric X-ray, cephalometry, ceph, tele, cephalometric image)

Basic information about the examination:

Name:	Cephalometry
Duration:	0.5-3 s
Radiation dose:	7-12 µSv
Is a referral required:
Does it require preparation:

What is cephalometry?

Cephalometry (teleradiogram) is a type of extraoral X-ray examination, meaning it does not require placing the equipment inside the mouth. It is an X-ray scan that uses X-ray radiation. In the case of this type of examination, the radiation dose is as low as 7-12 µSv, exactly the same as for a pantomogram image. Although cephalometry can be performed in three different projections (lateral, posterior-anterior, and axial), lateral cephalometry is by far the most commonly performed. This type of image visualizes the soft tissues of the face, paranasal sinuses, and hard palate.

When is cephalometry performed?

In dentistry, cephalometric images are primarily used in orthodontics. Cephalometry is performed in cases such as:

• orthodontic treatment and orthodontic treatment planning
• assessment of bone age and its measurements
• documentation of the condition before and after treatment
• diagnostics of malocclusions
• diagnostics of developmental defects of the skull
• evaluation of facial skeleton growth

How to prepare for a cephalometric examination?

Although no special preparation is required, before the scan you must remove any metal-containing objects from the head and neck area, such as jewelry, piercings, glasses, removable dentures or orthodontic appliances, hairpins, or hair ties with metal connectors. Metal (including precious metal) appears so clearly on a cephalometric scan that it could obstruct the examined structures.

Cephalometry - what does the examination look like?

A cephalometric examination takes as little as 3 seconds, and in the case of a device with "one shot" technology, which is available in our clinic in Saska Kępa (Praga Południe), even 0.5 seconds. Before the scan, the radiographer instructs the patient to stand upright in the designated spot. Special ear plugs are placed in the patient's ears, and a measuring gauge is placed at the bridge of the nose. The patient is asked to swallow saliva and gently bite down in their natural occlusion with mouth closed. Just a few minutes after the scan, the patient receives the result on a CD or flash drive. Results can also be downloaded from the DIAGDENT Patient Portal. To learn more about obtaining test results, click here.

The most important part of the examination is following the instructions of the radiographer. The above description of the procedure may vary slightly in individual cases.

How much does cephalometry cost?

Diagdent has maintained the lowest prices for cephalometric examinations on the market for years. Currently, the price for cephalometry is 90 PLN. A detailed price list of all examinations available in our clinics can be found here.

Where to get a cephalometric scan?

A cephalometric scan can be performed at Diagdent clinics in Warsaw, Wrocław, Łódź, Katowice, Gdańsk, and Gdynia. Opening hours: Mon–Fri 8:00 AM–8:00 PM, Sat 9:00 AM–3:00 PM.