Final answer:
The major difference is that in the paralleling technique, the film sensor is placed parallel to the tooth's axis while in the bisecting technique the sensor is positioned at an angle bisecting the axis of the tooth.
Step-by-step explanation:
The major difference between the paralleling technique and the bisecting technique in dental radiography is related to how the film sensor is positioned in relation to the teeth. In the paralleling technique, the film sensor is placed parallel to the long axis of the tooth which requires the use of a film holder to maintain proper alignment. This method minimizes distortion and provides an accurate representation of the tooth's length.
On the other hand the bisecting technique involves positioning the film at an angle where it bisects the angle formed by the long axis of the tooth and the plane of the film sensor. This traditional technique may result in image distortion and shortening of the tooth image because it relies on the principle of geometric projection.