Radiology Review Information!

ALARA principle

• as low as reasonably achievable

• every possible method od reducing exposure to radiation should be made

intraoral film

• periapical

• bitewings/interproximal

• occlusal

• full mouth series

size 2

what is the stand film size

periapical

examines entire portion of tooth including both crown and root

must show root of teeth and approximately 2-3 mm past apex

bitewing/interproximal

examines crowns of both maxillary and mandibular teeth

for the detection of inter-proximal caries and alveolar bone loss

must be horizontal or vertical

full mouth series

taking individual radiographs to examine all teeth and tooth bearing areas

18 films most common

elongation

results from insufficient angulation

when the vertical angulation is too flat, the image of the tooth appears longer than the actual tooth

foreshortening

results from excessive vertical angulation

when the vertical angulation is too steep, the image of the tooth appears shorter than the actual tooth

panoramic errors

• exaggerated/joker smile

• exaggerated frown

• anterior teeth appear skinny

• anterior teeth appear wide

• teeth on left side larger than those on the right

incipient caries

caries confined to the enamel

moderate caries

caries extends to DEJ but does not cross DEJ junction

advanced caries

caries extends through DEJ involving enamel and dentin

severe caries

carries extends through DEJ about halfway to the pulp

informed consent

person seeking healthcare services, have the right to self-determination

• legal right to make choices about the care received, including the opportunity to consent to or refuse treatment

why we need radiographs

• caries risk assessment

• low, moderate, high, extreme

• adequate saliva flow

• protective vs. disease factors

• history of cavities and dental restorations

pathogen

a microorganism capable of causing disease