Structure of the TMJ as viewed on the pantomograph.
The value of pantomography for visualizing the forms of the TMJ and the position of the condyle is dependent on placing the TMJ accurately in the zone of sharpness. 1. Oblique projection is best for showing the medial and lateral cortices of the mandibular condyle, TMJ space, and articular surfaces. 2. Profile projection is best for demonstrating the posterior and anterior cortices of the mandibular condyle, condyle-fossa relationship, and the position of the mandibular condyle. 3. Image discrepancies are easily detected when the usual radiographic features of the TMJ are not shown. A TMJ positioned too far in front of the zone of sharpness is shortened and slightly blurred, while the TMJ positioned too far behind the zone is elongated and severely blurred.
D006801:Humans; D011856:Radiographic Image Enhancement; D011862:Radiography, Panoramic / Q000379:methods*; D013704:Temporomandibular Joint / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*