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Records
 
Diagnostic records are made to document the patient's orthodontic
problem and to help determine the best course of treatment. As orthodontic
treatment will create many changes, these records are also helpful
in determining progress of treatment. Complete diagnostic records
typically include a medical/dental history, clinical examination,
plaster study models of the teeth, photos of the patient's face
and teeth, a panoramic or other X-rays of all the teeth, a facial
profile X-ray, and other appropriate X-rays. This information is
used to plan the best course of treatment, help explain the problem,
and propose treatment to the patient and/or parents.
 
The profile X-ray, or cephalometric film, shows the facial form,
growth pattern, and inclination of the front teeth (if teeth are
tipped or tilted), which are essential in planning comprehensive
treatment. Panoramic or other dental X-rays are used to locate impacted
teeth, missing teeth, and shortened or damaged tooth roots, to determine
the amount of bone supporting teeth, and to evaluate position and
development of permanent teeth that have not yet come in, among
other things. From the necessary records, a custom treatment plan
is created for each patient.
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