Film:8 x 10 inches

Position of Patient

Place the patient in semiprone position or seated before a VGD.

Position of Part

Center the TMJ to the midpoint of the cassette. Adjust the patient’s head in a true lateral position so the MSP is parallel with, and the IPL is perpendicular to, the plane of the film. The IOML is parallel with the transverse axis of the film.
Central Ray

Direct the central ray through the TMJ closest to the film at an angle of 20 degrees cephalad.

Structure Shown

Lateral images of the TMJ are demonstrated in the open and closed positions.
Both sides are examined for comparison.

Evaluation Criteria

• Opposite side of the mandible should not overlap the temporomandibular region
• TMJ should be free of superimposition from the cervical vertebrae.