On a panoramic radiograph, the hyoid bone is a normal structure that can be mistaken for pathology because it commonly projects:

The hyoid bone frequently projects over the inferior border and angle region of the mandible on panoramic films. Recognizing it as normal anatomy avoids misdiagnosis as a pathologic radiopacity.Other options: The hyoid lies in the anterior neck; it does not project into the sinus, orbit, or nasal cavity.Key exam takeaway: Know panoramic landmarks; the hyoid overlaps the lower mandible and is normal, not pathology.