In order to make a guideline for appropriate routine diagnostic imaging system for the temporomandibular joint, a questionnaire was sent to every 29 oral radiology section of dental college and university school of dentistry in Japan. Sixty radiologists from 22 oral radiology sections (76%) replied to the questionnaire.<br>This three-part article will describe a present status, significance, and a future for each imaging method and diagnostic imaging system based on the opinions of the responders.<br>In part I, we analyzed the present status of frequency, technique and choice of each imaging method.