Odontogram
Pronunciation: oh-DON-toh-gram
A diagrammatic chart of the teeth, used to record existing restorations, missing teeth, pathology, and treatment needs as part of the dental record.
Full Definition
An odontogram (also called a dental charting diagram or tooth chart) provides a visual map of all teeth in the oral cavity, typically using internationally recognized notation systems such as the FDI World Dental Federation two-digit system, the Universal Numbering System (primarily used in the US), or the Palmer Notation Method. Symbols on an odontogram indicate restorations, extractions, crowns, implants, caries, and other conditions. It forms a legal and clinical record and must be completed with precision. Editors working on clinical documentation templates or software user guides should verify that the correct notation system is specified and applied consistently throughout.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from 'periodontal chart', which records probing depths and attachment levels. An odontogram documents restorative and diagnostic status, while a periodontal chart documents gingival and bone health.
In Context
- "The updated odontogram reflected three new composite restorations placed since the patient's last visit." — Electronic health record
- "The software manual must specify whether the odontogram uses FDI or Universal numbering; do not assume one system applies globally." — Technical documentation note