Week 4 (chapter 9) Dental X-ray Film: Components, Types, and Processing

What is the primary purpose of dental x-ray film?

To serve as a recording medium or image receptor.

What is the difference between an image and a receptor?

An image is a picture or likeness of an object, while a receptor is something that responds to a stimulus.

What is a latent image?

The pattern of stored energy on the exposed film that cannot be seen until chemical processing.

What are the four basic components of dental x-ray film?

Film base, adhesive layer, film emulsion, and protective layer.

What is the function of the film base in dental x-ray film?

Provides strength and stable support for the delicate emulsion.

What is the role of the adhesive layer in dental x-ray film?

Attaches the emulsion to the base and covers both sides of the film base.

What is contained in the film emulsion of dental x-ray film?

A mixture of gelatin and silver halide crystals.

What do silver halide crystals do in dental x-ray film?

They absorb radiation during exposure and store the energy.

What is the purpose of the protective layer in dental x-ray film?

To protect the emulsion surface from damage and manipulation.

What types of dental x-ray film are there?

Intraoral film, extraoral film, and duplicating film.

What is intraoral film used for?

To examine the teeth and supporting structures inside the mouth.

What are the components of intraoral film packaging?

X-ray film, paper film wrapper, lead foil sheet, and outer package wrapping.

What is the function of the lead foil sheet in intraoral film packaging?

To shield the film from back-scatter radiation that creates film fog.

What are the three types of intraoral films?

Periapical, bitewing, and occlusal films.

What does periapical film examine?

The entire tooth and supporting bone.

What is the difference between screen film and non-screen film?

Screen film requires a screen for exposure, while non-screen film is exposed directly to x-rays.

What is duplicating film used for?

To make copies of radiographs for referrals and insurance claims.

What is the ideal storage condition for dental x-ray film?

In a cool, dry place, ideally in lead-lined or radiation-resistant storage.

What is the significance of film speed in dental x-ray film?

It determines the amount of radiation required to produce a dental image of standard density.

What factors determine film speed?

Size of silver halide crystals, thickness of the film emulsion, and presence of special radiosensitive dyes.

What is the fastest film speed designation?

F-speed film.

What happens to the latent image during chemical processing?

The latent image becomes visible.

What is the purpose of cassettes in dental radiography?

To hold the film and the intensifying screens in contact.

Why is it important to use the oldest film stock first?

To ensure the film is used before its expiration date.

What is the effect of heat, humidity, and radiation on dental x-ray film?

They negatively affect the quality of the film.

What is the identification dot on x-ray film used for?

To determine film orientation.

What is the typical size range for intraoral films?

Sizes 0, 1, 2, 3, and 4.