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Velvet Digest

What is an intraoral complete series?

Author

Emily Wilson

Updated on May 02, 2026

INTRAORAL - COMPLETE SERIES OF RADIOGRAPHIC IMAGES. A radiographic survey of the whole mouth, usually consisting of 14-22 periapical and posterior bitewing images intended to display the crowns and roots of all teeth, periapical areas and alveolar bone.

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Accordingly, what is a full mouth series?

Full mouth series A full mouth series is a complete set of intraoral X-rays taken of a patients' teeth and adjacent hard tissue. This is often abbreviated as either FMS or FMX (or CMRS, meaning Complete Mouth Radiographic Series).

Furthermore, what are the three types of dental images? There are three types of diagnostic radiographs taken in today's dental offices -- periapical (also known as intraoral or wall-mounted), panoramic, and cephalometric. Periapical radiographs are probably the most familiar, with images of a few teeth at a time captured on small film cards inserted in the mouth.

Also question is, how many radiographs are in a full mouth series?

Department of Oral Health & Diagnostic Sciences Page 2 4 A full mouth radiographic series (FMX) consists of 20 images composed of periapical (16) and bitewing (4) projections. Periapical radiographs are intended to evaluate the periapical region of the tooth and surrounding bone.

How often should a full mouth series be taken?

As a general rule of thumb, you should get a set of bitewings taken once a year, and a full mouth series (FMX) once every 3 years. Of course, if you are experiencing pain (other problems/concerns/suspicion) in between x rays, additional ones may need to be taken to diagnose what is going on.

Related Question Answers

Can dentist see cavity without xray?

Cavities between teeth are rarely seen without X-rays unless they are very large or when teeth break.