Dental Radiography Flashcards

Which of the following is the primary advantage of digital radiography over conventional film radiography?

Answer: Significantly reduced radiation dose

Digital radiography reduces radiation exposure by approximately 50–80% compared to conventional film, which is a major safety advantage.

A patient presents with a periapical radiograph showing a well-defined radiolucency at the apex of a non-vital tooth. This most likely represents a:

Answer: Periapical abscess or granuloma

A well-defined radiolucency at the apex of a non-vital tooth is characteristic of a periapical granuloma or chronic periapical abscess.

What is the proper technique for handling and storing unopened dental X-ray film to prevent fogging?

Answer: Store in a cool, dry area away from radiation and chemicals

Dental X-ray film should be stored in a cool, dry location away from scatter radiation, heat, and chemical fumes to prevent unintended exposure (fogging).

Which collimation device reduces patient radiation exposure by limiting the size of the X-ray beam?

Answer: Position indicating device (PID)

The position indicating device (PID) collimates and directs the X-ray beam to limit radiation scatter and reduce the area of tissue exposed.

Which type of radiographic error is caused by incorrect horizontal angulation, resulting in overlapping of tooth contacts?

Answer: Overlapping

Overlapping occurs when the horizontal angulation is not directed through the interproximal contacts, causing adjacent teeth to appear superimposed.

What does the acronym ALARA stand for in radiation protection?

Answer: As Low As Reasonably Achievable

ALARA stands for 'As Low As Reasonably Achievable,' a guiding principle that radiation exposure should be minimized while still obtaining diagnostic-quality images.