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Panoramic Positioning Errors — NDEB AFK MCQ

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ModerateRadiology & ImagingPanoramic Positioning ErrorsNDEB AFK

The panoramic radiograph artifact known as 'cervical spine superimposition' (radiopaque band across the anterior teeth) is caused by which patient positioning error?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: C — Patient's tongue not pressed against the palate

When the patient fails to press their tongue against the palate during panoramic imaging, an air space remains between the tongue and palate. This air space creates a radiolucent band across the apices of the maxillary teeth, reducing image quality. Conversely, a radiopaque band (cervical spine superimposition/ghost image) across the anterior region is caused by improper head positioning (chin too low/flexed, positioning the cervical spine in the path of the beam anterior to the focal trough).

Reference: White & Pharoah – Oral Radiology: Principles and Interpretation, 8th ed., 2019