cephalometric

Cephalometric refers to cephalometry, the quantitative study of the relationships of the bones of the head and face, typically using radiographs. Standard practice centers on lateral cephalometric radiographs (lateral cephalograms), which capture a side view of the craniofacial complex and allow analysis of skeletal and dental relationships as they relate to growth and treatment.

Common landmarks include Sella (S), Nasion (N), A point (A), B point (B), Pogonion (Pg), Gnathion (Gn), Menton (Me), with planes such as Frankfort Horizontal (Po-Or) and the S-N reference line. Cephalometric analyses convert these landmarks into measurements, notably angular relationships such as SNA, SNB, and ANB for sagittal jaw relationships, and vertical and dental angles such as U1-NA and L1-NB for tooth inclinations.

Other widely used analyses include Steiner, Downs, Wits appraisal, Burstone, McNamara, and Ricketts, each offering a framework to assess skeletal patterns and guide treatment planning. Applications span orthodontic diagnosis, treatment planning, and evaluation; growth assessment in growing patients; and orthognathic surgery planning and postoperative assessment.

Limitations include the inherent two-dimensional representation of a three-dimensional structure, landmark identification errors, radiographic magnification, and population- and age-dependent normative data. Digital cephalometry and three-dimensional imaging have advanced the field but do not replace careful clinical interpretation.

Historically, cephalometric methods were developed in the 20th century with Broadbent's and later Steiner's analyses, and have evolved with digital tools.