What caused the left TMJ to appear normal while the right TMJ is magnified on a panoramic radiograph?

The appearance of the left temporomandibular joint (TMJ) as normal while the right TMJ appears magnified on a panoramic radiograph can be attributed to the positioning of the patient during the radiographic process. When a patient is positioned too far to the left, the right side of the mandible and the associated structures, including the right TMJ, will be positioned closer to the film or sensor. As a result, the magnification effect occurs because the right joint is more directly in line with the X-ray beam and lacks the appropriate distance that would normally provide a more accurate representation of the size.

This phenomenon emphasizes the importance of proper patient positioning in achieving accurate radiographic images. A well-centered panoramic radiograph ensures that both sides of the TMJ are consistently represented, avoiding disparity in size appearance. If other factors like angle or exposure times were to affect the image, the issue would likely result in distortions or artifacts across both sides rather than a differential in size. Proper knowledge of positioning allows for the generation of clear and reliable diagnostic images.