DANB Radiation Health and Safety (RHS) Practice Exam

Overlapping on a radiograph occurs primarily due to improper horizontal angulation. When the X-ray beam is not aligned parallel to the surfaces of the teeth being imaged, it can cause the projections of adjacent teeth to overlap, leading to diagnostic challenges. Proper horizontal angulation allows for clear separation of the teeth on the radiograph, ensuring that each tooth is distinctly visible without interference from neighboring structures. Mastery of this technique is essential for producing high-quality radiographs that facilitate accurate diagnosis and treatment planning in dentistry.