A bitewing radiograph shows a thin radiopaque line crossing the image not attributable to anatomy or restorations. What does it most likely represent?

A thin radiopaque line on a digital bitewing is commonly the sensor's cable/cord superimposed on the image.Other options: Jewelry and external appliances produce different patterns; a root fragment is anatomic and not a thin straight line across the film.Key exam takeaway: Thin straight radiopaque line on a digital film = sensor cord/cable artifact.