Conventional bi-dimensional imaging of the maxillofacial region is limited due to the overlap of anatomical structures, making visualization of the area of interest very difficult. Computerized (or computed) tomography (CT) scan, also referred to as computerized axial tomography...

Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) is a medical imaging technique consisting of X-ray computed tomography (CT) where the X-rays are divergent, forming a cone...

Panoramic radiograph still remain the most popular and widely available diagnostic modality in dentistry. Basic anatomy of the jaws and any related pathologic findings can be evaluated with convenience. Panoramic radiograph is easy to perform and produces a single image of the...

Intraoral radiographs still remain one of the most important imaging modalities available in dentistry to the dental practitioner. The intraoral technique provides high spatial resolution imaging of teeth and potential associated dental and jawbone diseases. With careful....

Diagnostic imaging is an important element of the treatment planning in oral rehabilitation of a missing single tooth. There should be no imaging prior to a thorough clinical examination. One should consider cost and radiation issues prior to choosing the...

Routine evaluation of a patient’s temporo-mandibular joint (TMJ) function is an integral part of any oral examination.Moreover, good muscular control and painless coordination of jaw movements are desirable. A compromised ability or...

Residual bone volume in a single-tooth gap is mainly reflected by the cause of the missing tooth. A preserved gap due to aplasia implies an under-developed alveolar crest, mainly in bucco-lingual dimension, whereas defects after extraction of...

Periodontitis is a most common oral disease and 5 to 20% of any population suffers from its severe forms, while mild and moderate periodontitis affect a majority of adults. Causative factors may be both local and systemic, but regularly one...

The gingiva is tightly connected to the underlying periosteum. It is globally keratinized and has a stippled surface. Its color varies from pink to brown or even black, depending on race and/or melanin deposits. It can be distinguished from alveolar mucosa, which is not...

Occlusion describes the relationship between the opposing masticating surfaces of teeth and the movements of the mandible dictated by way of the temporomandibular joint and associated orofacial musculature...

A healthy oral condition is a prerequisite for successful dental implant treatment. A thorough investigation of remaining teeth with respect to caries disease, quality of restorations, and quality of endodontic treatments is important for the prognosis of these...

Most patients’ mouth opening readily permits access for routine prosthodontic and surgical treatment interventions. Limited mouth opening or microstomia is encountered in patients with a small mouth and patients exposed to sclerodermia, diffuse systemic sclerosis...

Lip line can be defined as the vertical position of the lower border of the upper lip. It is important to evaluate the lip line when smiling (smile line). The maximum upper lip elevation, during a strained smile, should also be assessed. As the smile...

Missing a permanent single tooth may be due to aplasia, trauma, or extraction of a decayed or periodontally compromised tooth. The cause of aplasia is not fully understood, but one suspects genetic and/or environmental disturbances during tooth...

The peri-implant mucosa consists of an externally located keratinized oral epithelium, which is connected to the peri-implant junctional epithelium facing the abutment. The latter extends approximately 2 mm apical to the...