(12) Dental Images and the Dental Radiographer

flashcard learning style

A two-dimensional representation of a three-dimensional objected produced by the passage of x-rays.

dental image

What is the important of dental images?

identifying conditions that go undetected clinically

What are 3 uses of dental images?

detection of diseases, lesions, and other conditions that would be missed clinically

What’s the main benefit of dental images?

detection of disease

How do you get the benefit of x-rays to outweigh the risks?

properly prescribing x-rays

What are some common diseases, lesions, and conditions found on dental images?

• missing teeth

• extra teeth

• impacted teeth

• dental caries

• periodontal disease

• tooth abnormalities

• retained roots

• cysts and tumors

Any person who positions, exposes, and processes dental x-ray image receptors.

dental radiographer

To be a competent dental radiographer, what is essential?

background knowledge of dental imaging

In the typical dental practice, the dental radiographer is called a ___________, either a dental hygienist or a dental assistant

dental auxiliary

List 5 duties and responsibilities of a dental auxiliary

• Positioning and exposure of dental x-ray imaging receptors

• Processing of dental x-ray films

• Data retrieval of digital images

• Mounting and identification of dental images

• Education of patients about dental imaging

• Maintenance of darkroom and processing equipment

• Implementation and monitoring of quality control tests

• Ordering of dental x-ray equipment and related supplies

What are 4 Priority goals for the dental radiographer?

• patient and operator protection

• patient education

• operator competence and efficiency

• production of quality images

• Quality care

What are some ways to practice patient protection?

• lowest level of radiation possible

• avoiding retakes

• thyroid collar and lead apron

• fast film

• beam alignment devices

• proper selection of exposure factors

What are some ways to practice operator protection?

• avoid primary beam

• maintain adequate distance

• proper position

• proper shielding from x-rays

• radiation monitoring badge to identify excessive occupational exposure

What topics are supposed to be covered in patient education?

• radiation exposure

• patient protection

• value and uses of dental images

How can the operator maintain operator competence

• attending continuing education sources and lectures

• studying professional books and journals

• reviewing and updating imaging techniques

What two types of work ethics should be considered to obtain the goal of operator efficiency?

• working carefully

• working quickly

Localization of foreign objects is the most important use of dental images

false

When images are properly prescribed, the benefit of the disease detection does not outweigh the risk of small doses of x-radiation

false

Through the use of dental images, the dental professional can detect diseases, lesions, and conditions of the jaws that cannot be identified clinically

true

A dental image contains less information than a written record

false

Missing, extra, and impacted teeth can be identified on a dental image

true

The dental radiographer is any person who positions, exposes, and processes dental x-ray imaging receptors

true

The dental radiographer is assigned only to position, expose and process dental x-ray receptors

false

The dental radiographer may be assigned to monitor and implement quality control procedures

true

Patient and operator protection must be primary concerns of the dental radiographer

true

Operator competence is maintained repeatedly performing dental imaging duties

false