If a panoramic radiograph shows excessive spine on both sides, what likely caused this error?

In the context of panoramic radiography, excessive visibility of the spine on both sides of the film typically occurs when the patient’s bite registration is positioned too far forward. When the arches are placed incorrectly, particularly too far in front of the focal trough, it can result in overlapping images of the spinal column, making it appear more prominent on the resulting film.

This area of the radiograph is susceptible to distortion based on the position of the patient’s jaw relative to the machine’s focal trough, which is the optimal area where the image will be clear and well-defined. If the teeth are situated more anteriorly than they should be, there is an increased likelihood of the cervical spine being captured on both sides, thus leading to the effect of excessive spine visibility in the image.

Other factors such as patient movement or incorrect film placement could also contribute to radiographic errors, but they tend to manifest differently, such as blurring or misalignment rather than specifically leading to an exaggerated appearance of the spine. Similarly, tilting the head back too far would typically lead to other types of distortions related to the maxillary and mandibular structures rather than emphasizing the presence of the spine. Understanding the correct positioning of the arches is crucial for obtaining a clear and