When do anterior teeth appear "fat" on a radiograph?

The appearance of anterior teeth as "fat" on a radiograph is primarily due to the positioning of the teeth during the radiographic process. When the teeth are positioned too far back on the bite-block, the radiographic projection can distort the normal anatomy of the anterior teeth. This distortion occurs because the angulation of the X-ray beam, combined with the occlusal relationship of the teeth, can cause an elongated effect, making the anterior teeth appear wider or "fat."

In a proper positioning scenario, the alignment of the teeth with the X-ray beam is critical for achieving accurate radiographic images. When the teeth are not positioned correctly, particularly if they are too far back, the resultant image will not accurately represent their true size or shape. As a result, understanding the correct positioning techniques is essential for effective dental radiography, as improper positioning can lead to diagnostic errors and impede treatment planning.