What is bilateral palpation?

Bilateral palpation involves using two hands at the same time to examine a specific area of the body. This technique allows the dental hygienist or clinician to assess symmetry and to compare sensations or findings between the two sides of the body. For example, during an oral examination, the practitioner might use one hand to palpate structures on one side while simultaneously using the other hand to assess the opposite side. This method enhances the ability to detect abnormalities or variations between the sides, providing a more comprehensive evaluation of the area being examined. The other options do not describe bilateral palpation accurately, as they involve techniques that use either one hand or focus on a single side, thus limiting the thoroughness of the examination.