A CEPH X-Ray takes pictures of the lateral or side view of the face. The complete radiographic image provides a way to view the teeth, jawbone and soft tissues that cannot be seen with the naked eye. This profile view of one’s face displays the bones and facial contours on a single film for a more accurate diagnosis. This type of x-ray is primarily used in the orthodontic planning and treatment process.
Cone Beam CT provides detailed images of the bone and is performed to evaluate diseases of the jaw, dentition, bony structures of the face, nasal cavity and sinuses. It does not provide the full diagnostic information available with conventional CT, particularly in evaluation of soft tissue structures such as muscles, lymph nodes, glands and nerves. However, cone beam CT has the advantage of lower radiation exposure compared to conventional CT.