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Radiology · single question

On a panoramic radiograph, a radiolucent shadow over the apices of the maxillary anterior teeth caused by the patient not placing the tongue against the palate is corrected by:

  1. Having the patient raise the tongue to the palate during exposure
  2. Tilting the chin further down
  3. Increasing exposure time
  4. Removing all radiographs from the operatory
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Correct answer: A. Having the patient raise the tongue to the palate during exposure

A palatoglossal air space (radiolucent band over maxillary apices) occurs when the tongue is not against the palate; instructing the patient to place the tongue on the palate eliminates the artifact.Other options: Chin position errors cause a different distortion (smile/frown line); exposure changes affect density, not this air-space artifact.Key exam takeaway: Palatal air-space artifact on panoramic = have the patient press the tongue to the palate during exposure.

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