Orthodontic records are used by your dentist or orthodontic as a study aide, in order to provide you with the best orthodontic treatment plan possible for your situation. When a patient becomes a candidate for orthodontic treatment, the dentist considers many factors when putting together a treatment plan. Typically, orthodontic records consist of:
- Dental Impressions - Dental impressions, also known as alginate impressions, are used to obtain an accurate replica of a patient's mouth.
Models of the mouth are made by pouring stone into the set impression material. These study models are used by the dentist to study the current position of the patient's teeth, and predict the future relationship between the upper and lower teeth. Study models are also used as a permanent record by the dentist, kept on file as part of your patient records. - Panoramic X-Ray - Also known as a panorex or pan, this x-ray is a two-dimensional and displays both the upper and lower jaws and teeth, in the same film. A panoramic x-ray is useful for adolescent patients in particular, because the dentist is able to see the developing teeth, and predict where they will erupt in the mouth. Patients that are experiencing a delay in the eruption of their teeth will require this x-ray at an earlier age in order to rule out missing or impacted teeth. Adult patients that are considering orthodontic treatment will typically have this x-ray taken for the dentist to see the current health and level of the jaw bone.
- Cephalometric X-Ray - The cephalometric x-ray, or ceph, is an x-ray that captures the side profile of the patient, from the top of their head to just below the tip of the chin. The ceph not only includes the teeth and bone, soft tissues are also distinguishable, which helps the dentist or orthodontist predict how the bone structure will change during orthodontic treatment. The dentist or orthodontist will use tracing paper and trace the ceph using important landmarks on the x-ray.
- Intraoral and Extraoral Photos - Intraoral (inside the mouth) and extraoral (outside the mouth) photos are taken of the patients teeth and face. These photos are used to determine the current external classification of the patient's profile, as well as a permanent record kept on file as a part of the patient's dental records.
When the dentist or orthodontist has obtained the completed records, all potential treatment options are recorded into the patient's file. Most dentists will have a consultation with the patient and/or the parents or guardians, to discuss the potential treatment options. At this consultation, the final treatment plan is agreed upon and the appropriate appointments are made to begin the orthodontic treatment.
Orthodontic records may be taken at different intervals during orthodontic treatment to monitor the patients progress, and when orthodontic treatment has been completed, to keep as part of the patient's permanent dental records.
Sources:
Australian Society of Orthodontists - "Orthodontic Treatment"
Stuart A. Greene DDS - "Types of X-Rays"
