Quadrants, Regions, and Numbering
The Foundation of Dental Radiography
🎯 Learning Objectives
- Divide the oral cavity into 4 Quadrants and 2 Arches.
- Identify the Anterior and Posterior regions of the mouth.
- Master the Universal Numbering System (1-32).
- Understand the difference between Primary (A-T) and Permanent dentition numbering.
1. Dividing the Mouth
In radiography, we divide the mouth into sections to ensure we capture every tooth. You must know these divisions for mounting purposes:
Arches
Maxillary: The upper arch (part of the skull).
Mandibular: The lower arch (the movable jaw).
Quadrants
The mouth is divided into 4 quarters: Upper Right, Upper Left, Lower Left, and Lower Right.
2. Anterior vs. Posterior
This distinction is critical for choosing the correct sensor size and Rinn holder color.
- Anterior: The “front” teeth. Includes Incisors and Canines (Cuspids). (Rinn Color: BLUE)
- Posterior: The “back” teeth. Includes Premolars (Bicuspids) and Molars. (Rinn Color: YELLOW)
3. Universal Numbering System
The DANB RHS exam uses the Universal Numbering System. You must be able to identify a tooth by its number instantly.
| Dentition Type | Numbering Method |
|---|---|
| Permanent (Adult) | Numbered 1 through 32. Starts at the Upper Right 3rd Molar (#1) and ends at the Lower Right 3rd Molar (#32). |
| Primary (Child) | Lettered A through T. Following the same clockwise path as adult teeth. |
🎓 DANB EXAM FOCUS: The Midline
In the Universal System, tooth numbers 8 & 9 (Maxillary) and 24 & 25 (Mandibular) meet at the Midline. If an exam question shows a PA of the midline, you are looking at the Centrals!