Radiographic TechniqueQuestion 53 of 100
A panoramic radiograph shows a dark radiolucent band across the apices of the maxillary teeth. What instruction was missed?
a.The patient should place the tongue firmly against the roof of the mouth during the exposure
b.The patient should breathe deeply throughout the exposure
c.The patient should close the eyes during the exposure
d.The patient should hold the receptor with both hands
Explanation
A dark band over the maxillary apices is the palatoglossal air space, which appears when the tongue is not pressed against the palate and air is trapped between them. Deep breathing increases motion artifact rather than preventing this shadow. Closing the eyes has no radiographic effect, and panoramic receptors are held by the machine, never by the patient.
Practice all 100 questions free — no signup required.
Related questions on this topic
- An image of an elderly patient shows the entire radiograph blurred, with no sharp outlines anywhere. What is the most likely cause?
- Using the bisecting technique, how does vertical angulation differ between maxillary and mandibular projections?
- What is the purpose of the raised identification dot on intraoral film, and how should it be oriented during placement?
- Which head position is correct when preparing a patient for a panoramic radiograph?
- Which darkroom test verifies that the safelight is not fogging film?
- An office uses photostimulable phosphor (PSP) plates. A faint image from the previous patient appears on a new radiograph. What was omitted?
Last reviewed: · editorial process
PrepPass Editorial Team · Verified against DANB Radiation Health & Safety (RHS) + Infection Control (ICE) Exams · How we review