1 Paleoradiology: History and New Developments - Academia.dk

edge of the x-ray film, respectively. A positive angulation
of the central ray of the x-ray beam means that
the x-ray cone is situated above the occlusal plane and
angled downward toward the teeth. A negative angulation
means the x-ray cone is situated below the occlusal
plane and angled upward toward the teeth.
True Maxillary Occlusal (Vertex View)
The value of this radiograph in evaluation of the dental
assessment is minimal in situations where all the
teeth are erupted, but can be useful in assessing the
position of unerupted and impacted teeth in the maxilla.
It is also a useful view for assessing the buccal
cortex of the maxilla (Fig. 2.38).
True Mandibular Occlusal
The true mandibular occlusal view (Fig. 2.39) will be
useful in evaluating the buccal and lingual cortices of
the mandible as well as the position of unerupted teeth
and impacted teeth. In patients, this radiograph is often
used to assess the soft tissue of the floor of the mouth
where calcifications within the submandibular salivary
gland duct can be observed radiographically. Usually,
the film is placed so that the long axis of the film is
bisected by the midsagittal plane. However, in some
cases it is desirable to place the long axis of the film anteroposteriorly
and image the left and right sides using
separate films. This is particularly true when disease is
present that has expanded the buccal cortex.
The next three views are best thought of as large
format, periapical radiographs using a bisecting angle
technique. These views are particularly useful when
the anatomy and bone surrounding the teeth is of
interest and a larger coverage area is desired. These
films are also useful in situations when the maxilla
and mandible are articulated and opening is limited.
Anterior Maxillary Occlusal
This view (Fig. 2.40a) can be used to assess the location
of impacted canines and posterior teeth as well as
assess the maxillary buccal cortex. The x-ray beam is
typically angled at +65 º to the occlusal plane.
Lateral Maxillary Occlusal
This view (Fig. 2.40b) can be used to localize impacted
teeth in the anterior maxilla as well as assess the
alveolar process and maxillary sinus. The x-ray beam
is angled +60 º to the occlusal plane.
Anterior Mandibular Occlusal
This view (Fig. 2.41) is similar to the anterior mandibular
periapical view, but provides an image of the
entire tooth and anterior mandible. The x-ray beam is
angled – 55 º to the occlusal plane.
2.8.3
Specimen Imaging
2.8.3.1
Imaging Intact Jaws
2.8. Dental Radiology
Fig. 2.37. Periapical radiography.
Red rope wax
on a Styrofoam holder to
stabilize the film and holder
in position. Modeling putty
can be used to position and
stabilize the jaw
Dental imaging will usually involve periapical and
occlusal views. Periapical views will use size-1 film
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