occlusal and localization techniques

Question 1

what is the purpose of the occlusal technique?

Answer 1

• used to examine large areas of the upper or lower jaw

Question 2

terminology:

Answer 2

• occlusal surfaces
• occlusal examination
• occlusal technique
• occlusal film

Question 3

purpose and use of occlusal technique

Answer 3

• a supplementary radiographic technique used in conjunction with periapical or bite-wing radiographs
• used when large areas of the maxilla or mandible must be visualized
• preferred when the area of interest is larger than a periapical film or when placement of periapical films is too difficult for the patient

Question 4

principles of the occlusal techniques

Answer 4

• the film is placed with the white side facing the arch to be exposed
• the film is placed in the mouth between the occlusal surfaces of the maxillary and mandibular teeth
• the film is stabilized when the patient bites on the film

Question 5

what is maxillary topography?

Answer 5

occlusal films of the maxillary teeth - tubehead higher

Question 6

what is mandibular topography?

Answer 6

occlusal films of the mandibular teeth - tubehead below

Question 7

patient preparation for occlusal images

Answer 7

• explain the radiographic procedure to the patient
• position the patient upright in the chair
• adjust the headrest to support and position the patient’s head
• place the lead apron with the thyroid collar on the patient and secure it
• remove all objects from the mouth

Question 8

equipment preparation for occlusal images

Answer 8

• set the exposure factors on the x-ray unit according to the recommendations of the film manufacturer
• either a short (8 inch) or a long (16 inch) position-indicating device (PID) may be used with the occlusal technique

Question 9

3 types of maxillary occlusal projections

Answer 9

• topographic projection: used to examine the palate and the anterior teeth of the maxilla (+65 degrees)
• lateral (left or right) projection: used to examine the palatal roots of the molar teeth
• paediatric projection: used to examine the anterior teeth of the maxilla, recommended for use in children 5 years old or younger

Question 10

3 types of mandibular occlusal projections

Answer 10

• topographic projection: used to examine the anterior teeth of the mandible (-55 degrees)
• cross-sectional projection: used to examine the buccal and lingual aspects of the mandible (90 degree angle)
• paediatric projection: used to examine the anterior teeth of the mandible, recommended for use in children 5 years old or younger

Question 11

vertical angulations: occlusal projection vertical angulation

Answer 11

• maxillary topographic (+65)
• maxillary lateral (rt or lt) (+60)
• maxillary paediatric (+60)
• mandibular topographic (-55)
• mandibular cross-sectional (90)
• mandibular paediatric (-55)