TMJ radiographsLateral TranscranialGenerally taken in rest,
closed, and open positionsShows condylar morphology, lateral
aspectNot good for evaluation of condylar position
TMJ radiographyTransmaxillaryTaken in open positionEvaluates the
superior aspect of the condyles from medial to lateralTaken through
orbit, AP view
Lateral TranscranialUse TMJ BoardX-ray tube position11 deg.
Down1 in above and 1 inch behind EAMAlign with opposite condyle
TMJ radiographyPA TowneTaken in the open positionEvaluates
medial and lateral poles of condylePatient must be able to open
adequately for this film to be of any use
TMJ TomogramLateralEvaluates condylar position and condylar
morphologyLateral, Open viewEvaluates condylar translationPA
Tomogram
TMJ CT and MRICTEvaluates osseous and soft tissue
componentsGenerally does not show the meniscusMRIGood for assessing
the meniscus and soft tissue
TMJ ArthrographyDemonstrates meniscusMust be done under
fluoroscopyRadiopaque dye injectionContraindicated with iodine
sensitive patients
Lateral transcranial radiographClosedOpenRest
Lateral Transcranial closed view
Transpharyngeal (Parma) view
MRI
MRI - TMJ
Flattening of the condyle
TMJ Radiography
Jon K. Park, D.D.S., M.S.University of Maryland School of
DentistryDepartment of Oral MedicineBaltimore, MD 21201
