NBDHE Dental Radiography and Interpretation Flashcards

Which of the following appears radiopaque on a dental radiograph?

Answer: Amalgam restoration

Amalgam is a high-density metal alloy that absorbs X-rays and appears as a bright white (radiopaque) area on radiographs.

The maximum permissible dose (MPD) of radiation for occupationally exposed dental workers per year is:

Answer: 0.05 Sv (5 rem)

NCRP guidelines set the annual MPD for occupationally exposed workers at 0.05 Sv (50 mSv or 5 rem) per year.

Interproximal bone loss appearing parallel to the cementoenamel junction (CEJ) on a bitewing radiograph is classified as:

Answer: Horizontal bone loss

Horizontal bone loss occurs when bone resorption proceeds evenly, resulting in a pattern parallel to the CEJ.

The ALARA principle in radiography stands for:

Answer: As Low As Reasonably Achievable

ALARA means 'As Low As Reasonably Achievable' and guides practitioners to minimize patient radiation exposure while obtaining diagnostic quality images.

A ghost image on a panoramic radiograph is characterized by:

Answer: Appearing on the opposite side of the object, higher and blurred

Ghost images on panoramic radiographs appear on the opposite side of the object, positioned higher and more blurred than the real image.

Which projection is best for detecting calculus on proximal tooth surfaces?

Answer: Bitewing

Bitewing radiographs provide the most accurate view of interproximal surfaces, making them ideal for detecting proximal calculus deposits.

Foreshortening of a tooth image on a periapical radiograph results from:

Answer: Too much vertical angulation

Excessive vertical angulation causes foreshortening because the X-ray beam is directed too steeply, compressing the apparent length of the tooth.