TMJ Axiolateral

• Temporomandibular joint space.
• Mandibular condyle, condylar neck and process.
• Articular fossa of temporal bone.
• Articular eminence.
• Relationship of condyle to fossa in closed-mouth position.
• Condylar movement in open-mouth position.

• Verify patient identity.
• Remove glasses, earrings, dentures, hairpins.
• Position patient upright or prone in true lateral position.
• Affected side toward IR; mid-sagittal plane parallel to IR.
• IOML (infraorbitomeatal line) parallel to long axis of IR.
• Closed-mouth position: teeth gently clenched together.
• Open-mouth position: open approximately 1 inch; suspend respiration.

TMJ articulation. Can be closed-mouth or open-mouth position.

CR angled 25-30° caudad, horizontal to IR.

kVp

70–80

mAs

12–20

SID

40" (102 cm)

Notes

CR angle 25-30 degrees. Perform both closed and open mouth for function.

• Joint space clearly visualized.
• Condyle centered in articular fossa.
• Mandibular condyle and temporal articular surface outlined.
• No superimposition of TMJ by mandibular ramus.
• Detail of condylar process and articular surfaces.
• Minimal surrounding anatomic structures.

1. 1 CR not angled 25-30 degrees: condyle superimposed on ramus.
2. 2 Rotation: joint space not clearly visualized.
3. 3 Tilt: condyle appears elongated or shortened.
4. 4 Mouth not closed or properly opened: inconsistent positioning.
5. 5 CR not horizontal: anatomic distortion.

• Temporomandibular joint dysfunction assessment.
• TMJ arthritis evaluation.
• Condylar fracture or dislocation assessment.
• TMJ functional evaluation: closed vs. open mouth.
• Pre- or post-operative TMJ follow-up.