American Board of Orthodontics (ABO) Practice Exam

Cephalometric imaging typically exposes patients to a radiation dose in the range of 2-3 microSieverts (uSv). This level of radiation is considered relatively low, particularly in comparison to other imaging modalities.

Cephalometric radiographs are commonly used in orthodontics for diagnostic purposes and treatment planning, providing crucial information about the growth and relationship of the skeletal and dental structures. The dose of 2-3 uSv reflects the efficiency of modern imaging technology in minimizing exposure while still obtaining the necessary diagnostic information.

Understanding the radiation exposure from cephalometric imaging is important for practitioners to balance the need for diagnostic imaging against the principle of "as low as reasonably achievable" (ALARA) concerning radiation safety. This range illustrates how cephalometric imaging is designed to be safe for patients while offering essential insights for orthodontic evaluations.