Week 2 (Chapter 4 and 7): Radiation protection; Dental x-ray equipment

What are the key objectives for client protection before x-ray exposure?

Describe the basics of client protection, discuss radiation protection steps, and ensure proper film handling.

What measures should be taken to protect the operator during radiation exposure?

List ways to minimize operator exposure, including the use of protective barriers and distance.

What is a radiation-monitoring badge?

A device used to measure and monitor an individual's exposure to radiation.

How should dental radiographs be prescribed?

Based on the dentist's professional judgment considering each client's individual dental condition and needs.

What is inherent filtration in dental x-ray equipment?

Primary beam passes through the unleaded glass window, oil bath, and tubehead seal of the x-ray unit.

What is added filtration in dental x-ray equipment?

Aluminum discs placed in the path of the x-ray beam to filter out longer wavelengths with low energy.

Added filtration filters out longer wavelength and?

Low energy

What is total filtration in dental x-ray equipment?

The sum of inherent and added filtration, which must comply with state guidelines and regulations.

What is the purpose of collimation in dental radiography?

To restrict the size and shape of the x-ray beam, thereby reducing patient exposure.

What is a collimator?

A lead plate with a hole that fits over the tubehead opening to shape the x-ray beam.

Why is a 16-inch PID preferred over an 8-inch PID in clinical practice?

It produces a less divergent, more parallel x-ray beam, improving image sharpness.

Which type of collimator exposes less surrounding tissue: circular or rectangular?

Rectangular collimators expose less surrounding tissue.

A patient like 'Emily' from your CAL examples is worried about radiation. Which combination of equipment would offer her the most protection?

Long rectangular PID and a digital sensor.

Right answer

What is the primary benefit of using a rectangular PID instead of a round PID?

It significantly reduces the area of the patient's face exposed to radiation.

What is the ADA's recommendation regarding routine dental radiographic examinations?

They should never be routine or include a predetermined number of radiographs.

What is the significance of the amount of kVp in filtration?

Total filtration requirements depend on whether the kVp is below or above 70 kVp.

What is the role of the dentist in the prescription of dental radiographs?

The dentist uses professional judgment to determine the type, number, and frequency of radiographs.

Which of the following describes the correct use of a thyroid collar?

It is used only for intraoral exposures to protect a highly sensitive gland.

Which of the following receptors provides the most significant reduction in radiation exposure for the patient?

Digital sensors

Lead apron used for ?

Intraoral and extraoral radiopgraphy

What tissues are the Lead Apron primarily designed to protect?

The reproductive organs and blood-forming tissues.

What is the importance of film handling and processing after client exposure?

Proper handling and processing are crucial to ensure the quality and safety of the radiographs.

What types of monitoring devices are used to detect x-radiation?

Various devices, including dosimeters and radiation badges, are used for monitoring.

What is the primary purpose of radiation protection steps before x-ray exposure?

To protect the client, operator, and other dental personnel from unnecessary exposure to x-radiation.

What is the effect of filtration on the x-ray beam?

Filtration removes low-energy x-rays that do not contribute to image formation and can increase patient exposure.

What is the difference between inherent and added filtration?

Inherent filtration is built into the x-ray unit, while added filtration involves additional materials placed in the beam path.

What is the function of a position indicating device (PID)?

To direct the x-ray beam towards the image receptor and reduce scatter radiation.

How does the design of a rectangular collimator benefit dental radiography?

It minimizes the amount of surrounding tissue exposed, leading to a lower radiation dose.

What is the purpose of a long PID in dental radiography?

A long PID is preferred due to less divergence of the x-ray beam.

What does a thyroid collar do?

It is a flexible lead shield that protects the thyroid gland from scatter radiation.

What is the function of a lead apron?

It protects reproductive and blood-forming organs/tissues from scatter radiation.

What type of radiography uses a lead apron?

It is used for both intraoral and extraoral radiography.

How do digital image receptors compare to traditional film in terms of radiation exposure?

Digital image receptors require less radiation exposure compared to traditional film radiography.

What is the fastest intraoral film available currently?

F-speed film.

What are the proper exposure settings for diagnostic images?

Proper mA, kVp, and exposure time should be used while limiting client exposure.

Why should nondiagnostic images be avoided?

Nondiagnostic images must be retaken, resulting in additional exposure to x-radiation.

What is the recommended distance for a radiographer to stand from the primary x-ray beam?

At least 6 feet away at a 90-135 degree angle.

What is a film badge used for?

It measures the amount of x-radiation that reaches the body of a dental radiographer.

What is the Maximum Permissible Dose (MPD) of radiation for an individual?

The maximum dose of radiation that the body can endure with little or no injury.

What is the recommended maximum dose of radiation for a dental radiographer per year?

1 mSv/year for the pregnant dental radiographer and 20 mSv/year averaged over 5 years, with no year over 50 mSv.

What is the average yearly background x-radiation exposure?

Approximately 3.0 mSv from natural and artificial sources.

What is the Cumulative Occupational Dose based on?

It is based on the age of the worker.

How is the cumulative occupational effective dose calculated?

It should not exceed the worker's age multiplied by 10 mSv.

What does ALARA stand for?

As Low As Reasonably Achievable.

What is the purpose of the HARP Act?

It governs the use of x-ray machines and regulates training, use, and safety.

What does the HARP Regulations include?

It includes topics for operating x-ray machines, duties of the Radiation Protection Officer, and safety procedures.

What is the importance of effective communication in dental radiography?

It helps to inform clients about radiation safety procedures and individual needs.

What should be reviewed before performing radiography?

The client's medical and dental histories.

What should be asked of female clients before radiography?

If they are pregnant or trying to get pregnant.

What is the role of the Radiation Protection Officer?

To ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and promote radiation safety.

What must be established according to Safety Code 30?

Safe working conditions.

Who can be a Radiation Protection Officer in Ontario?

Only dentists.

What is the purpose of a quality assurance program in radiation safety?

To implement and maintain standards for safety and equipment function.

What are intraoral x-ray machines used for?

To expose intraoral films/receptors placed inside the client's mouth.

What is a portable dental x-ray unit?

A lightweight, handheld, battery-powered unit for exposures outside the dental office.

What surrounds the PID in intraoral x-ray machines to minimize backscatter?

A lead acrylic disc.

What does the control panel of an x-ray machine do?

Regulates the x-ray beam and activates the machine.

What features indicate that an x-ray machine is turned on?

An illuminated indicator light.

What are receptor holders used for in dental radiography?

To hold intraoral receptors in place during x-ray exposure.

What is the XCP (Extension Cone Paralleling) holder used for?

For the paralleling technique in dental radiography.

What is the Stabe Bite Block made of?

Disposable styrofoam.

What is the purpose of collimating devices?

To restrict the size of the x-ray beam and limit radiation exposure.

What types of devices can be used for beam alignment?

Devices for both traditional film receptors and digital sensors.

What does the exposure button on the control panel do?

Activates the x-ray machine to produce x-rays.

What are the key components controlled by the x-ray machine's control panel?

mA, kVp, and exposure time.

What is the purpose of the aiming ring in the XCP holder?

To help align the PID with the tooth and receptor.

What is the function of beam alignment devices?

To indicate the PID position in relation to the tooth and receptor.

What is the significance of maintaining equipment by competent personnel?

To ensure that all equipment functions properly and safely.

What is the main focus of the learning objectives in the context of dental x-ray equipment?

To define key terms, recognize machines, and describe their components and uses.

Eezee-grip/snap-a-ray film holder used for?

Bisecting technique

What is the purpose of dental x-ray receptor holders?

To hold the receptor in place during x-ray exposure.