Evolving Trends in Orthodontic Imaging for Advance Patient Care

Orthodontists have long enjoyed the reputation for being the most progressive amongst dental specialties. The discovery of x-rays was a revolution in the field of dentistry in the 19^th century. Over the years, diagnosis and treatment planning have relied heavily on technological and mechanical aids. Recent advances in digital imaging techniques have paved the way for the replacement of traditional method. Although some of the conventional imaging techniques such as cephalometric radiography, panoramic projections, periapical projections and hand-wrist radiographs are still used even now, other techniques such as Computed Tomography and corrected tomography of the TMJ have gradually been replaced with MRI, Arthrography, CBCT and Micro CT. Thus, orthodontic imaging has evolved a long way from Edward Angle's “Plaster era” days to the days of “Digital era”. The objective of this review is to provide an overview of the evolution of craniofacial imaging, its limitations while looking at innovations that will enhance the description of craniofacial structures.