Course Description

The fundamentals of radiology as applied to dentistry will be presented. Special consideration will be given to radiation physics, hazards, biological effects, protection and quality control methods. Basic interpretation and radiographic anatomy will also be included. While extraoral techniques are discussed, emphasis will be given to the proper techniques for exposing, processing, and mounting traditional and digital intraoral radiographs of diagnostic quality. Group 2 course.

Credit Hours

2

Contact Hours

2

Lecture Hours

2

Corequisites

HDA 243

Recommended Prerequisites or Skills Competencies

HAH 120, HDA 120, HDA 160

Course Learning Outcomes

Knowledge:

• Explain the use of radiation in dentistry.
• Describe the biological effects of radiation.
• Describe how an x-ray machine produces radiation.
• Explain how to process x-rays using automatic processors.
• Explain the different types of digital radiography and how/why each are accomplished.
• Explain the different types of extraoral radiography and how/why each are accomplished.
• Identify medical and dental emergencies through case based dental scenarios.

Application:

• Demonstrate operator and patient safety guidelines before exposing x-rays on patients.
• Differentiate common anatomical landmarks.
• Evaluate common dental pathologies on dental radiographs.

Integration:

• Integrate infection control measures learned in infection control curriculum in relation to exposing and processing dental radiographs.

Human Dimension:

• Interact with others to share techniques used to expose diagnostic dental radiographs on a variety of patients.

Caring - Civic Learning:

• Engage with others to reflect the legal issues related to dental radiography.

Learning How to Learn:

• Reflect on technique and processing errors that occur while in radiography class and how to prevent or remedy them.