Case study
Consider the following patients and conditions. Which of the seven extraoral radiographs described in this chapter might be the best recommendation for these cases? (Note: Radiographs of the skull are difficult to interpret due to the numerous structures that exist in a very small area. These structures often appear superimposed over each other, requiring multiple views to obtain a good diagnosis. Therefore, in some of these cases, although there is usually a best answer, there may be more than one correct answer.)
1. A 20-year-old patient presents with pain and swelling from an impacted third molar. The patient can open only 10 mm. No panoramic unit is available. What is an alternate extraoral projection type that can be used to assist with diagnosis for this patient?
2. A 13-year-old patient presents for an orthodontic consultation. Occlusal (teeth) and facial disharmonies (soft tissue relationships) need to be assessed prior to treatment intervention.
3. A difficult extraction case presents with a severely decayed maxillary molar. During the extraction procedure, the root tip fractures and is possibly lost in the sinus cavity.
4. A medically compromised patient suffered a seizure and fell. A fractured mandibular condyle is suspected.
5. A 69-year-old patient presents with a history of degenerative joint disease that may be affecting the temporal mandibular joint. An examination for the purpose of diagnosing ankylosis (a stiffening of the TMJ) is planned.
6. A patient presents for extraction of several badly decayed teeth, following which the prosthodontist will construct a maxillary full denture and a mandibular partial denture.