Module 1 Dental Radiography

Proper prescribing of radiographs

A patient protection technique used before x-ray exposure.

Lead apron

A protective barrier worn by patients to reduce radiation exposure during dental x-rays.

ALARA

The concept that states that all radiation must be kept as low as reasonably achievable.

Added filtration

The placement of aluminum discs in the path of the x-ray beam to create a more penetrating useful beam.

Rectangular collimator

A device that significantly reduces patient exposure by restricting the size of the x-ray beam.

Maximum permissible dose for dental personnel

50 mSv in any one year.

Maximum permissible dose for pregnant personnel

0.5 mSv per month during pregnancy.

Cumulative radiation exposure

The total amount of radiation a person has been exposed to over their lifetime.

XCP by Rinn

The beam alignment device used in clinics.

PID (position indicating device)

An extension of the tubehead that helps to aim the x-ray beam.

Film badge

A device worn by dental radiographers at waist level to monitor radiation exposure.

Extension arm

The part of the dental x-ray machine that allows movement and positioning of the tubehead.

Receptor holder

A device used to stabilize the intraoral receptor in place during x-ray exposure.

Retakes

Unnecessary repeated exposures which should be avoided to prevent extra radiation.

Clinical Identification of Lesions

A method for breaking the chain of infection.

Pathogens

Microorganisms capable of causing disease.

Semi-critical device

An instrument that must be sterilized or disinfected after each use.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) order

The sequence in which protective gear is put on and taken off to ensure safety during procedures.