Radiology · single question
On a periapical radiograph of the maxillary anterior region (no arrow provided), what is the thin radiolucent line visible between the maxillary central incisors?
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Correct answer: B. Intermaxillary (median) suture
B) Intermaxillary (median palatine) suture — CORRECT.
The intermaxillary suture (median palatine suture) appears as a thin, fine radiolucent line running vertically between the maxillary central incisors on periapical radiographs. It must be distinguished from: vertical root fractures (which follow the root outline) and the nasopalatine canal (which appears as a pear/ovoid shape at the apex area). Without an arrow, location and morphology guide diagnosis.
A) Fracture line: Would be irregular, may displace tooth segments, associated with trauma history.
C) Nasopalatine canal: Ovoid/round radiolucency between the roots — not a thin vertical line.
D) Incisive foramen: Located at the apex level between central incisors — also ovoid, not a vertical line.
The intermaxillary suture (median palatine suture) appears as a thin, fine radiolucent line running vertically between the maxillary central incisors on periapical radiographs. It must be distinguished from: vertical root fractures (which follow the root outline) and the nasopalatine canal (which appears as a pear/ovoid shape at the apex area). Without an arrow, location and morphology guide diagnosis.
A) Fracture line: Would be irregular, may displace tooth segments, associated with trauma history.
C) Nasopalatine canal: Ovoid/round radiolucency between the roots — not a thin vertical line.
D) Incisive foramen: Located at the apex level between central incisors — also ovoid, not a vertical line.