Distortion in radiography is best described as which of the following?

• A. Change in the size of an image caused by incorrect vertical angulation
• B. Change in image contrast due to scatter
• C. Blur caused by patient movement
• D. Artifacts caused by improper exposure

Answer: (A)

Distortion means the image doesn’t reflect the true size or shape of the anatomy. When the vertical angle of the X-ray beam is not correct, the tooth’s projection onto the film changes, making the image appear larger or smaller than the real tooth. That mismatch in apparent size is distortion, and it’s directly linked to improper vertical angulation. The other options describe issues that affect contrast, blur from motion, or exposure artifacts—not distortion of size or shape.