MANDIBULAR MOLARS

Adjust the head as described for radiographs of mandibular teeth (paragraph 4-7b). Place the packet in the mouth with the long axis horizontal and the upper border of the film parallel to, and slightly above (approximately 1/4 inch) the occlusal surfaces of the molar teeth. Relieve the lower anterior border by contouring. Place the packet alongside the tongue and far enough distally to include the entire third molar area. Impacted or malposed mandibular teeth may require special positioning of the film packet. Adjust the tube to an average angulation of -5º. Direct the central ray straight through the interproximal spaces at the center of the film and perpendicular to the bisecting plane (see figure 4-14). Follow the manufacturer's instructions for exposure times.