Film: 8 x10 inches
Position of Patient
Place the patient in a lateral position, either recumbent or seated, so that the head can be adjusted at a longitudinal angle of 30 degrees to the plane of the film.
Position of part
Center a point ½ inch anterior to the EAM to the cassette and adjust the patient’s head in lateral position resting on the parietal region. Adjust the head so the MSP forms an angle of 30 degrees, open caudally, to the plane of the film.
Central Ray
Direct the central ray perpendicular to the midpoint of the film. It enters just distal to the uppermost mandibular angle farthest from the film and emerges at the TMJ closest to the film.
Structure Shown
This position demonstrates axiolateral images of the mandibular joints in the open and closed positions.
Evaluation Criteria
• Opposite side of the mandible should not overlap the temporomandibular region
• TMJ should be free of superimposition from the cervical vertebrae.
• Condyle should lie in the mandibular fossa.
