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