As an orthodontics dentist, there’s a lot you’ll need to consider to ensure you’re interpreting your patients’ x-rays accurately. However, sometimes, it can seem incredibly difficult to understand what your patients’ x-rays mean and what you’re looking at. Of course, this can undeniably leave you scratching your head in confusion. Luckily, we’ve outlined some of the key things you should know as part of your ortho training to help you understand what you’re looking at and formulate the right treatment plan going forward!

Tricky Cases in Panoramic X-Rays You Should Know

There are numerous different challenges that can make your work in orthodontics a little trickier. However, for the most part – though this may vary from state to state, so check your local laws first – the x-ray taker is responsible for accurately reading and interpreting the x-ray results.

In line with this, it’s your responsibility to ensure that the x-rays are read properly before making a treatment plan.

#1 Odontoma

An odontoma is one of the most common tricky cases you’ll experience in panoramic x-rays. An odontoma will often need to be referred to OS due to the complexity of the case.

#2 Condensing Osteitis

Generally speaking, condensing osteitis may need a slightly different approach. If you have previous x-rays from the patient that show the growth or lesion hasn’t gotten any bigger, it may not need specialist support; however, if you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to get in touch with an expert for more help. However, tooth extraction may be required in some cases.

#3 Super Numerary

If you’ve completed your ortho training, you’ll likely have heard about super numerary teeth – in other words, this occurs when there is an additional tooth that is not usually found in series. Super numerary teeth may need to be surgically removed.

Final Thoughts

Treating more uncommon conditions can be a little tricky. Getting further support (such as from the CBCT) may be helpful if you notice areas of defined and undefined margins and areas on the x-rays, or if you see a case that needs a more specialized treatment plan than you can provide.

Remember: if you have any queries, don’t hesitate to reach out to our Straight Smile Solutions team today!

Keywords

Orthodontics

Treatment plan

Ortho training