Notation
Last updated: 2026-03-29
Dental Notation Setup
The Notation module allows you to define the tooth numbering systems used in your dental clinic (such as the Universal Numbering System, FDI, or Palmer notation). This setup ensures that when a dentist selects a tooth on the digital chart, the system logs the correct tooth code and anatomical record.
When Do I Use This?
- During the initial setup of your dental charting software.
- When your clinic decides to adopt or support a different standard tooth numbering system.
- When setting up the specific codes for primary (baby) teeth versus permanent (adult) teeth.
How To Use
Creating a New Notation System
- Go to the Dentistry module and navigate to Notations.
- Click + New to create a new numbering system.
- Enter the Name (e.g., "Universal System") and a short Code (e.g., "UNIV").
- Add any helpful details in the Description.
- Click Save to establish the main record.
Adding Teeth (Notation Items)
Once the system is created, you must define each tooth within it.
- Open the Notation system you just created.
- In the Notation Items section, click + Add Item.
- Enter the specific tooth Code (e.g., "8" for Universal Upper Right Central Incisor).
- Select the correct Quadrant and link it to the exact Anatomy record.
- Check Is Primary if it is a baby tooth.
- Set the Sequence to control how it displays on the visual chart (usually from the front midline moving back to the molars).
- Click Save. Repeat for all teeth in the system.
Field Descriptions
Main System Information
| Field Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Name | The full name of the numbering system (e.g., "FDI World Dental Federation"). |
| Code | A short, unique abbreviation for the system (e.g., "FDI"). |
| Description | Optional notes about where or why this system is used in your clinic. |
Notation Item (Tooth Details)
| Field Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Code | The specific number or letter assigned to this tooth (e.g., "11", "A", "32"). |
| Quadrant | The section of the mouth the tooth is located in. 1 = Upper Right, 2 = Upper Left, 3 = Lower Left, 4 = Lower Right. |
| Is Primary | Check this box if this code represents a deciduous (baby) tooth. Leave unchecked for permanent (adult) teeth. |
| Is Start Molar | Check this box if this tooth marks the beginning of the molar section. |
| Anatomy | Links this specific code to the universal anatomical record of the tooth in the system. |
| Sequence | A number used to sort the teeth visually on the chart. Typically ordered starting from the midline (front teeth) out to the molars (back teeth). |
Tip: Setting up a full notation system from scratch can be tedious! Ensure you map out your sequences and anatomical links on a piece of paper before entering all 32 adult teeth and 20 primary teeth.