DAST 1510 - Dental Radiology

Lecture : 45 contact hours
Laboratory:30-45 contact hours

Prerequisites: Admission to Dental Assisting program. Students must be college level in reading, writing, and math.

Course Description:
This course includes the principles of radiation physics, exposing, processing, mounting, evaluation and interpretation of dental images, biological effects of radiation and protection principles, quality assurance protocols and infection control is emphasized. 

Student Learning Outcomes:
Students will be able to:

1. Explain the fundamentals characteristics of ionizing radiation
2. Explain the principles of generating the x-radiation
3. Describe the formation of images on the radiographic film
4. Explain the biological effects of radiation exposure
5. Discuss the rationale for radiation protection for the operator and patient
6. Describe radiation protection methods for the operator and patient
7. Demonstrate radiation protection methods
8. Assess film type and speed for adjustment of exposure time to produce a diagnostically acceptable radiograph
9. Apply concepts of vertical and horizontal angulation to produce quality radiographs
10. Demonstrate the placement, exposure and processing of films in the application of paralleling and bisecting techniques when producing a full mouth series using traditional radiographic films
11. Demonstrate the placement, exposure and processing of films in the application of paralleling and bisecting techniques when producing a full mouth series using digital film sensors.
12. Demonstrate and modify the paralleling and bisecting techniques in placing and exposing for mixed dentition and partially edentulous dentition.
13. Demonstrate the placement for a bitewing survey
14. Identify bitewing uses and film sizes in modifying for pediatric patients and
15. Demonstrate processing of exposed dental radiographic film using automatic processing procedures.
16. List the causes and corrections for common errors and artifacts on radiographs.
17. On the dental images, identify and describe the appearance of the following: Base materials, metal, anatomical landmarks and dental caries.
18. Define and be able to spell dental terms assigned.