Radiographic examinations of orthodontic educators and practitioners

Orthodontic educators and practitioners were surveyed to determine the radiographs each prescribes to diagnose Class II malocclusion patients. Results of the study were based on 141 responses. The frequency of ordering each of ten radiographic projections and the importance of these radiographs to the orthodontists' diagnosis and treatment planning were measured. A lateral cephalometric and panoramic film were found to be the most frequently ordered and the most diagnostically important radiographs. Differences between the two groups were found regarding their use of supplementary radiographs. Educators were found to order more radiographs for their patients.