Are skull xrays necessary for a simple case of an overbite in orthodonics?

Cephalometrics: Lateral radiographs of the skull allow your orthodontist to measure various angles of the jaw, teeth, and their positions in relationship to fixed points in the skull. Simple case or not, if your orthodontist feels s/he needs those films to diagnose the case properly, then they are necessary.

NO: Skull xrays per se are not necessary. More than likely the doctor will do something called a panorex or jaw films what else is needed to be done. The panorex is a special type of xray that goes around your face and jaws. The plain xrays of jaw may be necessary as well. Make sure your abdomen is shielded when xryas are done

Working blind: Without proper x-rays you are asking to Orthodontist to work blind. Skeletal malrelationships cannot be determined by visualization alone. We're talking about an very small amount of radiation to yield a great deal of diagnostic information. Besides, what you see as a "simple" overbite may be just the tip of the iceberg. Please see a qualified Orthodontic Specialist for more information.

XRAYS: There are several types of X-rays that an orthodontist routinely uses in aiding a diagnosis. Your orthodontist is the person who is is in the best position to determine what records are appropriate prior to any active treatment. If he says you need further X-rays, you have two choices..follow through with his recommendation, or get another opinion.

Yes: When being evaluated with dental maxillofacial problem, the Pano or skull x-ray will be ordered by your dentist. Usually children under age of 6, the minimal radiation dosage rule applied and normally will be evaluated by visual checkup only unless more suspicious condition were noticed.

Definitely, yes: The skull x-rays , photos and study models are done for any orthodontic treatment even the simplest one.. Your orthodontist will plan your treatment using these records.

Yes: we need to see your teeth and root structures. Most x-rays are now digital and as such have an EXTREMELY low amount of radiation, so I would not worry unless you are pregnant

Not always: Although skull x-rays are considered part of the standard records doctors use to diagnose and plan orthodontic treatment, it is not needed in every situation. I prefer to request only the x-rays that I need to make a proper diagnosis for a particular individual rather than requesting a "standard" package for everyone.

Yes: The standard of care in orthodontic treatment requires certain orthodontic records to properly diagnose and treatment plan a case. What credentials do you have to determine what overbite is simple vs complicated? That is why an orthodontist spend an addtional 2-3 years in a residency to make those professional opinions.

Likely, yes: An orthodontist uses several tools to diagnose and treat your malocclusion. Radiographs are part of the tools used. Most orthodontists will take a panoramic radiograph to look at teeth and roots. A cephalometric radiograph is taken to determine skeletal relationships as they relate to your case. There is no such thing a "simple overbite". There are usually more underlying issues.....