Introduction to Dental Radiography

These vocabulary flashcards cover key concepts related to dental radiography, including definitions and terms that are essential for understanding the subject.

Dental Images

Allow dental professionals to identify conditions that may otherwise go undetected.

Detection

The primary reason for taking X-rays in dentistry.

Enamel

The hardest surface in the mouth.

Dentin

The layer beneath the enamel, soft and porous, that decays rapidly once attacked.

X-rays

A form of radiation used in dental imaging to diagnose conditions.

Open Contacts

Prevent overlapping teeth which can hinder early cavity detection.

Lesions

Abnormal tissue or organ changes that can be detected in dental X-rays.

Calculus

Plaque that has hardened on teeth, detectable by X-rays.

Caries

Another term for dental decay or cavities.

Wilhelm Conrad Röntgen

The scientist credited with the discovery of X-rays.

Heinrich Geissler

Invented the first vacuum tube used in the production of X-rays.

Dental Radiograph

A photographic image produced on film by the passage of X-rays through teeth.

Paralleling Technique

A technique used in producing dental X-rays where the source of radiation is parallel to the image receptor.

Bisecting Technique

An alternative method to the paralleling technique that allows for angling of the sensor for certain patients.

Full Mouth Survey

A set of overlapping periapicals and bitewings taken to examine the entire mouth.

PID (Position Indicating Device)

The part of the X-ray machine that directs the X-ray beam toward the patient.

Aluminum Filter

Used to filter out less penetrating X-rays.

Collimator

Directs the shape and size of the X-ray beam to improve image quality.

Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT)

A type of 3D imaging that provides detailed images of dental structures.

Radiation Safety

Practices to protect patients and staff from unnecessary exposure to radiation.

Exposure Time

The duration that the X-ray machine is active during image capture.

Control Panel

The part of the X-ray machine where settings are adjusted.

Step Down Transformer

Reduces voltage in the X-ray machine.

Step Up Transformer

Increases voltage for the production of X-ray energy.

Cathode

The negatively charged electrode in the X-ray tube that produces electrons.

Anode

The positively charged electrode in the X-ray tube that the electrons collide with to produce X-rays.