A cephalogram is an X-ray of the craniofacial area.
A cephalometric analysis could be used as means for measuring growth in children.
The lateral cephalogram is a profile x-ray of the skull and soft tissues and is used to assess the relation of the teeth in the jaws, the relation of the jaws to the skull and the relation of the soft tissues to the teeth and jaws. In children, growth predictions can be made and we can also determine the changes that have occurred with treatment. In adults, treatment can be predicted with varying degrees of accuracy and results quantified. The lateral cephalogram is used to establish the forward projection of the nasion, subnasale, and gonion, which establishes the relationship of different horizontal facial levels to the skull base. Dental relationships can be visualized on the lateral cephalogram, revealing the tilt of the occlusal plane. The AP cephalogram helps to establish the relationship of the horizontal occlusal plane to the skull base, which is especially important in treating hemifacial microsomia (HFM). In HFM, the horizontal occlusal plane is higher on the affected side, secondary to an ipsilateral vertical maxillary hypoplasia.
