It tends to show all of the major facial structures at least as well and often better than other radiographic views of the face. It can initially be a bit daunting to think about ruling out fractures of the complex collection of bones that make up the face. It is especially important to examine the orbital borders and apex, as well as the optic canal. Know the most common patterns of facial fractures and look for them. Bilateral symmetry can be very helpful.
Normal radiopacities are usually bilateral, while abnormal ones are usually unilateral.
Carefully trace along the lines of Dolan when examining the Waters view in a facial series. They are three anatomic contours best seen on the Waters view of the face, and they were first popularized by Dolan et al . As you can see, the 3 lines of Dolan lead the eye along some facially important structures. Lee Rogers pointed out that the 2nd and 3rd lines together form the profile of an elephant. When you search for a fracture, you are really searching for one or more of the following radiographic signs.