X-Ray Parts + Errors

Ampere

A unit of electric current.

Cathode

Positive electrode in the x-ray tube

Anode

Negative electrode in the x-ray tube

Tubehead

Part of the x-ray unit that contains the x-ray tube, transformers, and insulating oil.

Tungsten Target

Focal spot in the anode.

Extension Arm

Allows positioning of the tubehead.

Control Panel

Contains the regulating devices.

.Metal Housing

Body of the tubehead that surrounds the x-ray tube and transformers and is filled with oil

Tubehead Seal

Aluminum or leaded-glass covering of the tubehead that permits the exit of x-rays.

X-ray Tube

Heart of the x-ray generating system.

Transformer

Device that alters the voltage of incoming electricity

Aluminum Disks

Filters out non-penetrating longer-wavelength x-rays.

Lead Collimator

Restricts the size of the x-ray beam

Position-Indicating Device (PID)

Aims and shapes the x-ray beam.

Overlapped Contacts

Direct the x-ray beam through the interproximal regions

Cone Cut

Make certain the x-ray beam is centered over the receptor

Dropped Receptor Corner

Make sure the edge of the receptor is placed parallel to the incisal-occlusal surfaces of the teeth

Elongation

Ensure sufficient vertical angulation

Phalangioma

Make certain the patient's finger is not holding the receptor in place

Absence of Apical Structures

Make certain no more than 1/8 inch of the receptor edge extends beyond the incisalocclusal surfaces of the teeth

Foreshortening

Ensure no excessive vertical angulation

Double Image

Always separate exposed and unexposed receptors

Incorrect Anatomy on Image

Make certain the receptor is centered on the anatomy to be exposed

Uneven Max/Mand on Bitewing

Make certain the bite block/tab is centered on the receptor

Blurred Image

Instruct the patient to remain still while the receptor is being exposed

Panoramic

- Impacted Teeth

- Cysts

Bitewings

- Dental caries

- Bone Loss

- Poor Crown Margins

Periapal

- Apical Infection

Occlusal

- Jaw Fractures

- Salivary Stones