A lateral cephalometric X-ray, or lateral ceph X-ray, is a specialized type of dental X-ray that captures a side view of the head, including the teeth, jaws, and facial structures.
Key Features:

1. Side View: It provides a clear image of the profile of the head, showing the alignment of the teeth and jaws.
2. Purpose:
   • Diagnosis: Helps identify orthodontic issues, such as overbites, underbites, and jaw discrepancies.

Benefits:

• Detailed Analysis: Offers important information for evaluating dental and facial relationships.
• Non-invasive: The process is quick and generally painless.
• Guides Treatment: Helps in creating a customized treatment plan for orthodontic care.

There is minimal radiation exposure, but it is still considered safe for diagnostic use.