What effect does the chin being tipped up have on the panoramic radiograph?

When the chin is tipped up during the capture of a panoramic radiograph, the resulting image often features an exaggerated smile line. This happens because the positioning affects the angulation of the x-ray beam, leading to distortion in the representation of the curvature of the dental arch. When the chin is raised, the image projection causes the mandible to appear lower and the maxillary arch to appear higher in relation to the rest of the teeth, which can enhance the impression of a pronounced upward curve in the anterior region of the dental arch.

As a result, this exaggerated smile line is characteristic of improper patient alignment and can lead to diagnostic challenges, such as obscuring certain anatomical details. A correct positioning technique is essential for producing a panoramic radiograph that accurately portrays the buccal and occlusal surfaces of the teeth, ensuring clearer images of the anterior teeth while minimizing distortion in the posterior regions.