Incorrect vertical angulation

Important: Foreshortening refers to a shortened image and elongation refers to an

elongated image. Both are produced by an incorrect vertical angulation. Excessive
vertical angulation causes foreshortened images. while insufficient vertical angulation
causes elongated images.
Vertical angulation is directing x-rays so that they pass vertically through the part
being examined. This is accomplished by positioning the tubehead and direction of the
central ray in an up-and-down (vertical) plane.
Horizontal angulation is maintain ing the central ray at 0 degrees as the tube is moved
around the head. This is accomplished by positioning the tubehead and direction of the
central ray in a side-to-side (horizontal) plane . Note: The general rule for horizontal
angulation is that the central ray should be perpendicular to the mean anteroposterior plane of the teeth being x-rayed .

The central ray is said to be at 0 degrees when the x-ray tube is adjusted so that the
central ray is parallel to the floor. If the tubehead is directed at the floor, it is called plus
angulation; if it is directed toward the ceiling, it is called minus angulation.
Important: Incorrect horizontal tube angulation causes overlapping (teeth images are
superimposed on each other).