DH 120 - Dental Radiography I

Credit Hours: 1

The technical aspects of dental radiographic imaging are covered. Lectures include an overview of radiation history, radiation safety and the ALARA principle, infection control, a discussion of dental films and digital sensors, intra-oral techniques, film exposure factors and image formation, film processing and mounting, basic image interpretation, quality control techniques and the care and maintenance of dental radiographic equipment. Minimum passing grade is “C-.”

Course Outcomes
At the completion of the course, the student should be able to demonstrate competency in the following areas:

discuss the rationale for taking dental radiographs;
comprehend basic radiation safety and protection procedures used in dental radiology;
delineate the process of mounting dental films;
comprehend basic geometric theories and principles of the four intra-oral techniques used in the production of quality dental radiographs;
identify errors and artifacts associated with intra-oral technique or processing;
explain and identify various types of radiographic film utilized in dentistry;
discuss the details of film processing, and the requirements of a functional darkroom;
comprehend quality assurance measures as they apply to dental radiography; and
delineate events significant to the development of radiography in dentistry.

Corequisites: All required first-semester courses in the Dental Hygiene or Dental Assisting curricula.
Concurrent Registration: DH 121
F (N)