What is the result of bending a film during processing?

Bending a film during processing results in a black artifact on the film. This occurs because the bending causes uneven pressure and can lead to areas where the film is not fully developed or is improperly exposed to developer solutions. The portions that are bent may remain more vulnerable to light exposure or might not receive proper processing, which can manifest as dark areas on the final radiograph.

Understanding this artifact is important because it informs dental professionals about the significance of handling film carefully to avoid compromising the quality of radiographic images. Proper film handling and processing techniques are crucial to obtain clear and diagnostic images needed for effective patient assessments.