RE: How to add custom graphical chart symbols for abscess and dental fracture procedure buttons

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bigggwiggg
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Joined: Mon Mar 09, 2026 9:43 pm

RE: How to add custom graphical chart symbols for abscess and dental fracture procedure buttons

Post by bigggwiggg »

I'm trying to create two custom procedure buttons in Open Dental that trigger specific visual markings on the graphical tooth chart. I want the chart to display the finding, not just log the procedure code. Here's what I'm going for:

1. Periapical Abscess
I want a procedure button for conditions that, when clicked, places a filled black circle at the apex of the root on the graphical chart, similar to how a periapical radiolucency is typically illustrated in a clinical charting system.

2. Dental Fracture
I want a procedure button that places a zig-zag or jagged line across the occlusal/incisal surface of the crown on the graphical chart, representing a crown fracture.

My core question is: does Open Dental's graphical tooth chart support custom symbols tied to procedure codes, and if so, where is that configured?

Specifically, I'm trying to figure out:
- Whether the graphical display is controlled through the procedure code setup, the Sheet/Chart module, or somewhere else entirely
- Whether these kinds of symbols (filled apex circle, fracture line) are already built into Open Dental under specific procedure codes
- If custom graphics are not supported natively, is there a workaround some of you are using?

I've looked through the procedure button setup and can map codes to buttons fine, but I can't figure out how to get the desired graphical chart outcome. Any guidance appreciated.
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