In The Name of God

Examination Techniques

Basic Technique• Visual Inspection• Diascopy• Palpation• Probing • Percussion• Auscultation• Aspiration• Evaluation of Function

Visual InspectionVisual Inspection is the systematic observation of

the patient. It begins at the first meeting with the patient in the form of a general appraisal.

DiascopyDiascopy is a specific examination technique whereby the tissue examined is compressed by

a glass slide or a wafer of clear acrylic.

PalpationPalpation is a procedure wherein the examiner

feels or presses the structures examined.

Bidigital Palpation

Bimanual Palpation

ProbingProbing is palpation with an instrument and is one

of the most important diagnostic techniques used in dentistry today.

percussionPercussion is the technique of striking the

tissues with the fingers or an instrument.

AuscultationAuscultation is the act of listening for sounds within

the body. It does not necessarily imply the use of a stethoscope.

Aspiration Aspiration is withdrawal of fluids from a

body cavity.

Evaluation of FunctionSeveral function need to be assessed in

examination of the head and neck.

Examples of Application of The Techniques

Examination of a Nodule

Examination of an Ulcer

Examination of a Nodule

Once a nodule has been located by visual inspection and palpation, it should be

evaluated for its composition.

The Composition of the nodule can be estimated on the basis of

certain physical signs:• Consistency

• Fluctuation

• Fluid thrill

• Translucency

• Pulsatility

• Compressibility

• Bruits

As the nodule is evaluated for its composition, other features

such as its position, color, shape, size, surface texture, border and temperature and the presence of tenderness

may be noted.

Examination of an Ulcer

Many lesions that occur in and about the mouth are ulcerative. Some ulcers

are associated with innocuous conditions and some with highly

contagious diseases, whereas others are the clinical manifestation of

malignant disease.

Ulcers should be evaluated for the character of their:

• Base

• Edge

• Depth

• Color

• Discharge

• Relation to surrounding tissues