Q: Which radiographic error caused this “flat” smile?
radiology, panoramic radiograph errors, flat smile, dental hygiene exam prep

Q: Which radiographic error caused this “flat” smile?

Q: Which radiographic error caused this “flat” smile?

(A). Lead collar is above the line
(B). The chin is tipped down too far
(C). The chin is tipped up too far
(D). The patient’s head is twisted

radiology, panoramic radiograph errors, flat smile, dental hygiene exam prep
Mini Boards Reviews for the National + Local Anesthesia + CSCE Dental Hygiene Boards Exams!

The Dental Hygiene Board Exams (NBDHE, NDHCE, CSCE) will show you panoramic radiographs and ask you what type of error was made. There is a whole list of errors that you need to memorize! As we know, there are lots of little things to take care of when we take a panoramic for our patients. Today, let’s learn the 4 types of errors described above.

In an ideal situation, there should be a slight smile line in the panoramic radiograph.

  • If the chin is tipped up too far, the smile line disappears and becomes “flat.” This is shown in the picture for today’s post and a little non-smiley icon to help you remember it.
  • If the chin is tipped down too far, the smile line becomes exaggerated (makes sense since we studied the opposite above).
  • If the patient’s head is twisted, one side of the oral structures will appear bigger than the other side.
  • The lead collar above the neckline will create a “shark’s fin” error. And also remember that the lead apron is worn like a poncho, with the opened surface towards the front of the torso.

Answer: (C). The chin is tipped up too far

Please make sure to review all radiographic errors for the Dental Hygiene Board Exams (NBDHE, NDHCE, CSCE). The textbook is fantastic, it gives you pretty much everything you need to know. But if you need something easier to read, consider StudentRDH Dental Hygiene Board Review course for the National Boards or CSCE. The chapter on Radiology features images with bullet point notes because who needs all that “fluff?”

Hope these StudentRDH Weekly Vitamins are helping you absorb information little by little for the Dental Hygiene Board Exams (NBDHE, NDHCE, CSCE). And of course, for our Canadian subscribers, this information applies to you too!

National (NBDHE, NDHCE)+ Local Anesthesia + CSCE Dental Hygiene Boards Review by StudentRDH
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(Disclaimer: StudentRDH is NOT affiliated with the NBDHE, NDHCE, CSCE, CDCA, WREB.)

Written by
Claire Jeong, RDH, MS

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