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Radiology · single question

In a periapical (PA) radiograph, what vertical angulation error causes foreshortening?

  1. Too much vertical angulation (over-angulation)
  2. Film too far from tooth
  3. Too little vertical angulation
  4. Incorrect horizontal angulation
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: A. Too much vertical angulation (over-angulation)

Foreshortening (image shorter than actual tooth) results from excessive vertical angulation (too steep X-ray cone). Mnemonic: Too Much = Too Short.
  • A. ✅ CORRECT – Excessive vertical angulation causes foreshortening.
  • B. ❌ Film placement error causes geometric distortion.
  • C. ❌ Too little vertical angulation causes elongation (image appears longer).
  • D. ❌ Incorrect horizontal angulation causes overlapping of proximal contacts.

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