The orthodontic consultation process usually involves radiographic investigation of the jaws and teeth. These x-rays help the orthodontist to discover any problems that cannot be seen by physically looking into your mouth or at yourface. There are many different types of x-rays that can be taken either within the mouth or around your face – examples of these are:
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Any of these x-rays can be useful for:
- Diagnosis and classification – determining what your specific problems are
- Determining your suitability for certain types of treatment
- Planning treatment and predicting what the results are likely to be
- Measuring changes to the teeth and bone which occur before, during and after treatment
Panoramic x-ray

AImpacted Tooth
(Tooth stuck in the gum) This tooth is leaning against the roots of the other teeth which can cause damage.
BRoot Resorption
The root of the baby tooth has dissolved.
CRoot Position
Tooth root is in wrong position - this cannot be seen in the mouth.
DTooth Position
Tooth is leaning into the space.
EMissing Tooth
There is no evidence of a tooth to replace the one that is missing. Some people do not grow all of their teeth.
FRoot Development
This root is not completely developed.
GWisdom teeth
Position of back teeth can be assessed including wisdom teeth.
Skull or facial x-ray
![]() | AUpper jaw and tooth position BLower jaw position |
Problems that can be found on x-rays?

















