Film Processing in Dentistry

These flashcards cover essential concepts and processes involved in film processing, focusing on steps, solutions, equipment requirements, and common problems in dental imaging.

What is the first step in the film processing sequence that produces a visible image on a dental image?

Development - To reduce the exposed, energized silver halide crystals into black, metallic silver.

What are silver halide crystals responsible for during x-ray exposure?

They absorb x-radiation.

What is the latent image?

The pattern of stored energy on exposed film.

What does the reduction process in film processing refer to?

The halide portion of the exposed, energized silver halide crystal is removed, resulting in precipitated black metallic silver.

What is the primary purpose of rinsing in film processing?

To remove the developer from the film and stop the development process.

What is the role of the fixer in film processing?

To remove the unexposed, unenergized silver halide crystals from the film.

How often should film processing solutions be replenished?

Daily.

What is the commonly known name for sodium thiosulfate in the fixer solution?

Hypo.

What is the purpose of safelighting in the darkroom?

To allow for procedures not associated with processing films while preventing damage to the film.

What is an example of a problem that can occur during film processing due to improper temperature?

Underdeveloped film.

What should be done with used fixer solutions?

Run through a silver recovery unit to remove silver and never discharge into a septic system.

What type of lighting should the darkroom be equipped with for safe film processing?

Light-tight lighting without leaks.

What equipment is essential for processing films?

Processing tank, automatic processing equipment, thermometer, timer, film hangers, and stirring rod.

What types of films should be disposed of in appropriate containers?

Lead from film and used fixer solutions.

What is a fingernail artifact?

An artifact caused by placing fingernails on the film during processing.

What should the minimum distance be between the safelight and the film working area?

A minimum of 4 feet.