Orthodontic records
Photographs, models or scans and selected radiographs support diagnosis. Justify each exposure and record the clinical question.
Understand
Photographs, study models or scans and selected radiographs document baseline and support diagnosis. Each radiograph must answer a clinical question.
Assess
Check image quality and whether existing images already answer the question. Describe occlusion and soft tissue findings alongside the records.
Apply
Use the minimum justified exposure and review the whole image for incidental findings. Records should support consent and progress assessment, not be collected by rote.
Key distinctions
Clinical photographs capture soft tissue and tooth display, models or scans show arch form, and radiographs answer targeted developmental or root questions. Radiographic exposure must be justified, not bundled automatically with orthodontic assessment. Records also make later root resorption, decalcification or unwanted movement detectable against a reliable baseline.
Think through a case
A panoramic image already exists from a recent justified assessment. Reusing it may avoid a new exposure if it answers the orthodontic question adequately.
The distinction to remember
Do not collect cephalometric or panoramic images as a routine package without an individual question.
Test your recall
Why take a panoramic radiograph only when indicated?
Show answer
Radiation exposure needs a justified benefit.