3.1. BASIC AND ADDITIONAL METHODS OF EXAMINATION
Examination of a patient is carried out in order to establish a diagnosis. It consists of basic and additional methods.
The basic methods include:
- interview;
- identification of complaints;
- life and medical history, information on previously conducted treatment, its effectiveness and co-morbidities.
When interviewing a patient, it is necessary to take into account his personal characteristics and psychoemotional state. The doctor is also obliged to respect and observe the principles of deontology and medical ethics.
After the interview, the doctor proceeds to the examination of the MFR. Objective examination includes external examination of the face and neck, palpation of soft tissues, organs and bones of the MFR. The assessment of the degree of mouth opening, the TMJ movement, and the examination and palpation of tissues and organs of the oral cavity are also included.
If necessary, the doctor can conduct additional examination methods such as laboratory, microbiological, cytological, biochemical, immunological, radiological and functional methods.
Based on the data acquired from the basic methods, the doctor can make a preliminary diagnosis. For a definitive diagnosis, it is often necessary to carry out additional examination methods.