When you visit an orthodontist, X-rays play a key role in understanding your smile and creating a personalized treatment plan. Two of the most common types are cephalometric and panoramic X-rays.

A cephalometric X-ray (or ceph) is a side-view image of your head that shows your teeth, jaw, and facial profile. This X-ray helps your orthodontist see how your teeth and jaws fit together and how they relate to the rest of your face. It’s especially useful for diagnosing bite alignment issues and planning how your teeth and jaws will move during treatment.

A panoramic X-ray (or pano) gives a complete, two-dimensional view of your entire mouth in one image. It shows the roots of your teeth, jawbone, wisdom teeth, and any teeth that may be impacted or still developing. This helps your orthodontist evaluate the overall structure of your mouth and determine how complex your case may be before starting treatment.

Together, these X-rays give your orthodontist a detailed picture of your oral health—ensuring your treatment plan is accurate, effective, and tailored just for you.

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