When performing an axiolateral of the mandible to demonstrate the rami, how should the patient's head be positioned?

In the axiolateral projection of the mandible, positioning the patient's head in a true lateral position is critical for accurately visualizing the rami of the mandible. When the patient's head is placed in a true lateral position, the rami are perpendicular to the image receptor, allowing for optimal visualization without distortion. This alignment ensures that the x-ray beam can properly penetrate and display the anatomy of the mandible in the correct orientation.

Proper head positioning minimizes superimposition from adjacent structures and enhances the clarity of the rami. If the head were positioned differently, such as with rotation or tilting, it could result in foreshortening or elongation of the mandible, leading to an inaccurate representation of the anatomical structures. Therefore, for optimal imaging and accurate diagnosis, true lateral positioning is essential in this specific projection.