Digital imaging, dental film, and processing radiographs (chp.39)

automatic processor

machine that automates all film-processing steps.

beam alignment device

assists in the positioning of the position indicator device.

bitewing

image view that shows the crowns of both arches on one film

calcium tungstate

common type of phosphor.

cassette

contains extraoral films during exposure.

cephalometric film

shows the bony and soft tissue areas of the facial profile.

charge-coupled device (CCD)

solid-state image sensor used in intraoral digital imaging.

digital image

electronic signals captured by sensors and displayed on computer monitors.

digitize

scanning of traditional film-based radiographs into a digital image.

duplicating film

film designed for use in film duplicating machines.

emulsion (ee-MUL-shun)

coating on the x-ray film that contains energy-sensitive crystals.

extraoral film

film designed for use in cassettes.

film speed

amount of radiation required to produce a radiograph and the exposure time.

intensifying screen

part inside an extraoral cassette that converts x-ray energy into visible light, which in turn exposes screen film.

intraoral film

film designed for placement in the patient’s mouth.

label side

colored side of the film that faces the tongue.

latent image

invisible image on the x-ray film after exposure but before processing.

occlusal

radiographic view that shows large areas of the maxilla or mandible.

panoramic

film used in cassettes to provide a wide view of both the upper and lower jaws.

periapical (per-ee-AP-i-kul)

radiographic view that shows the crown, root tip, and surrounding structures.

phosphor storage plate (PSP)

Reusable film sized storage plate that converts film based imaging to a digital format.

positioning instruments

intraoral devices used to position and hold the film, sensor, or PSP.

processing

series of steps that change exposed film into a radiograph; steps include developing, rinsing, fixing, washing, and drying.

radiograph (RAY-dee-oe-graf)

image produced on photosensitive film by exposing the film to radiation and then processing it.

tube side

solid white side of the film packet that faces the x-ray tube.

automatic processor

machine that automates all film-processing steps.