Question

Describe how to position/take a VD open mouth projection of the maxilla

Answer 1

To position/take a VD open mouth projection of the maxilla, have the patient sit upright with their head tilted back, position the x-ray machine perpendicular to the patient's mouth, and place the x-ray plate behind the patient's head. Instruct the patient to open their mouth wide, keeping their chin level and their tongue on the floor of their mouth, and have them bite down on the bite block or film holder. Finally, take the x-ray while ensuring the image captures the entire maxilla and surrounding structures.

Step-by-step explanation:

To position/take a VD (ventrodorsal) open mouth projection of the maxilla, follow these steps:

1. Have the patient sit in an upright position with their head slightly tilted backward.
2. Position the x-ray machine perpendicular to the patient's mouth at a distance of approximately 5-6 feet.
3. Instruct the patient to open their mouth as widely as possible, keeping their chin level and their tongue resting on the floor of their mouth.
4. Place the x-ray plate behind the patient's head, aligning it with the midline of the patient's maxillary arch.
5. Ask the patient to close their mouth and gently bite down on the bite block or film holder to keep the x-ray plate in place.
6. Take the x-ray while ensuring the image captures the entire maxilla and surrounding structures.