Course Content
Introduction
Here is what to expect
0/3
Unit 1A: Purpose and Technique (50%) (Purpose)
A. Purpose of radiographic images 1. Periapical 2. Bitewing 3. Full mouth series 4. Occlusal 5. Full-mouth survey 6. Panoramic 7. Cephalometric 8. CBCT (cone-beam computed tomography) B. Technique 1. Review patient medical and dental histories for contraindications, including medications. 2. Intraoral techniques, including error correction. a. Paralleling b. Bisecting angle 3. Extraoral techniques, including error correction. a. Panoramic b. Cephalometric c. CBCT (cone-beam computed tomography) basics 4. Technique modifications based on anatomical variations and clinical conditions. 5. Purpose and maintenance of radiographic equipment. 6. Patient management techniques. 7. Mounting and anatomical landmarks that aid in mounting. 8. Anatomical structures and dental materials observed on images (e.g., differentiating between radiolucent and radiopaque areas). 9. Features of a diagnostically acceptable image. 10. Prepare images for legal requirements (e.g., HIPAA).
0/19
Unit 2A: Radiation production (25%)
Radiation production. 1. Sources of radiation for operators/other staff during radiation production. 2. Factors affecting x-ray production (e.g., kVp, mA, exposure time). 3. Radiation characteristics. 4. Radiation physics. a. Primary. b. Scatter (secondary). 5. Radiation biology. a. Short-and long-term effects of radiation on cells and tissues. b. Concepts of radiation dose.
0/8
Unit 2B: Radiation Safety
Radiation safety. 1. Causes of unnecessary exposure to radiation. 2. Patient exposure to radiation (ALARA, ADA recommendations). 3. Factors that influence radiation safety (e.g., filtration, shielding, collimation, PID length). 4. Patient radiation concerns. 5. Informed consent or patient refusal for exposure to radiation. 6. Protocol for suspected x-ray machine malfunctions.
0/9
Unit 3A: Standard precautions for equipment and supplies (25%)
Standard precautions for equipment and supplies according to ADA, CDC and OSHA, including but not limited to: 1. breakdown and setup of treatment room. 2. barriers. 3. position indicating and beam alignment devices. 4. clinical contact surfaces. 5. critical and semi-critical instrument sterilization
0/7
Unit 3B: Standard precautions for patients and operators
Standard precautions for patients and operators according to ADA, CDC and OSHA, including but not limited to: 1. hand hygiene. 2. PPE (donning, doffing). 3. cross contamination.
0/8
Vocabulary Terms
0/1
Practice Exams
0/1
RHS Exam Prep

Radiation Physics – Understanding Primary and Scatter (Secondary) Radiations

Learning Objectives

  • Differentiate between primary and scatter (secondary) radiations in dental radiography.
  • Understand the physical principles underlying the behavior of these radiations.
  • Comprehend how these types of radiation impact image quality and safety protocols.

Introduction

Welcome to another key module in Unit 2A that’s geared to deepen your understanding of radiation physics, specifically focusing on primary and scatter (secondary) radiations. This knowledge is not only critical for anyone preparing for the RHS exam but is also indispensable for effective and safe dental radiography practice.

Primary Radiation: The Cornerstone of Imaging

Primary radiation is the bedrock of radiographic imaging. Originating from the X-ray tube, these rays are directed toward the patient or the image receptor. In essence, primary radiation is what generates the image we use for diagnosis. Understanding the physics behind primary radiation helps us to optimize image quality by controlling factors like exposure time, kVp, and mA.

Scatter Radiation (Secondary): The Necessary Nuisance

While primary radiation provides the image, scatter or secondary radiation is something we generally want to minimize. Scatter radiation occurs when primary radiation interacts with objects and disperses in various directions. This can not only affect image clarity but also pose safety concerns for both patients and operators. A deep understanding of the physics of scatter radiation is crucial for developing strategies to limit its presence and impact.

Subtypes of Scatter Radiation

  • Compton Scattering: Occurs when X-rays hit outer-shell electrons and scatter.

  • Photoelectric Scattering: Happens when the X-ray is absorbed and then emitted as a lower-energy X-ray.

Understanding these subtypes is essential for radiation safety measures and achieving high-quality images.

Balancing Primary and Scatter Radiation

The goal in radiographic imaging is to maximize primary radiation to the image receptor while minimizing scatter radiation. This is usually done by properly aligning the X-ray beam and using techniques such as collimation and filtration. A thorough understanding of the physics involved helps us implement effective safety measures and generate high-quality images.

Conclusion

This module should equip you with a nuanced understanding of the primary and scatter radiations involved in dental radiography, as well as the physics that underlie these phenomena. Grasping these aspects ensures you are well on your way to becoming proficient in both the art and the science of dental radiography.


© Coy Academy 2023. This module is exclusively intended for use within the Coy Academy course and is protected by copyright laws. Unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this material is strictly prohibited and may result in legal action.

Visit Coy Academy for more modules that will further prepare you for the RHS exam and a fulfilling career in dental radiography.

Exercise Files
204 Radiation physics.mp3.mp3
Size: 0.00 B