NBDHE Dental Radiography and Interpretation Questions and Answers

Question 1

A panoramic radiograph of a 14-year-old patient reveals a well-defined, corticated radiolucency inferior to the mandibular canal in the left posterior mandible.
The patient is asymptomatic.
Which of the following is the MOST likely interpretation?

Accepted Answer

A normal anatomical variation, such as a Stafne bone defect.

Answer

A periapical cyst associated with the first molar.

Answer

An early-stage benign tumor.

Answer

Evidence of localized osteomyelitis.

Question 2

A dental hygienist is evaluating a set of bitewing radiographs. The images show significant overlapping of the interproximal contacts, making caries detection impossible. This error is caused by incorrect:

Accepted Answer

Horizontal angulation

Answer

Vertical angulation

Answer

Exposure time

Answer

Film placement

Question 3

Which of the following is the EARLIEST radiographic sign of periodontal disease?

Accepted Answer

Fuzziness or a break in the continuity of the lamina dura at the alveolar crest.

Answer

Horizontal bone loss of 3-4 mm.

Answer

A distinct radiolucency in the furcation area of a mandibular molar.

Answer

Widening of the periodontal ligament space.

Question 4

A patient is undergoing a full mouth series of radiographs. To adhere to the ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) principle, which of the following is the MOST effective way to protect the patient from unnecessary radiation exposure?

Accepted Answer

Using a lead apron with a thyroid collar

Answer

Using a round collimator

Answer

Using a short, 8-inch position-indicating device (PID)

Answer

Using a D-speed film

Question 5

While taking a panoramic radiograph, the dental hygienist instructs the patient to place their tongue against the roof of their mouth and swallow. If the patient fails to do this, what error is MOST likely to appear on the final image?

Accepted Answer

A large, dark shadow over the apices of the maxillary teeth.

Answer

An exaggerated 'smile line' with foreshortened mandibular incisors.

Answer

A radiopaque artifact resembling a 'ghost image' of the spine.

Answer

Blurring and narrowing of the anterior teeth.

Question 6

A periapical radiograph of the maxillary anterior region shows the teeth appearing stretched and much longer than their actual size. This type of distortion is known as:

Accepted Answer

Elongation

Answer

Foreshortening

Answer

Overlapping

Answer

Cone cut