What does it suggest if one side of a panoramic radiograph shows larger teeth or condyles?

When a panoramic radiograph reveals larger teeth or condyles on one side, it typically indicates that the patient's head is not positioned correctly, specifically that it is twisted during the imaging process. This incorrect alignment leads to distortion; one side may appear magnified compared to the other due to the angle of exposure. Proper patient positioning is crucial for obtaining accurate and diagnostically useful images, as any misalignment can alter the perceived size and shape of anatomical structures.

The other options do not directly relate to the distortion seen in the radiograph. For instance, excessive radiation exposure affects the radiographic density but does not cause one side to appear larger. Similarly, using the wrong film type or improper development processes can lead to various image quality issues, but they would not specifically result in a size discrepancy between the sides of the image. Understanding the importance of head positioning helps ensure the accuracy of radiographic assessments in dental hygiene practice.