Dental Radiography

Radiation and Imaging in Dentistry

• Energy carried by waves or particles is categorized as radiation.
• Dental images are vital for diagnosing conditions, planning treatments, and monitoring progress in patient care.
• The study of radiation in medicine is referred to as radiology.

Historical Contributions

• Wilhelm Conrad Roentgen is credited with the discovery of x-rays.
• The first dental radiograph in the U.S. was created by Dr. Edmund Kells.
• Roentgen referred to his discovery as x-radiation.

Advancements in Dental Radiography

• Dr. Kells is acknowledged for the first practical use of radiographs in dentistry.
• Common extraoral imaging techniques in dentistry include panoramic radiographs and cephalometric projections.
• An extraoral x-ray machine consists of components such as a tube head, film holder, and a source of radiation.

Intraoral Imaging Essentials

• A receptor holder is used to stabilize the x-ray film or sensor during image capture.
• A beam alignment device ensures the x-ray beam is directed accurately toward the receptor to minimize distortion.
• The first prewrapped intraoral films were manufactured by Eastman Kodak Company in 1913.
• The first machine-made periapical film packets became available in the 1920s.

Techniques and Innovations

• F. Gordon Fitzgerald revived the technique of bitewing radiography in 1947.
• The control panel of typical intraoral dental x-ray machines includes settings for exposure time, milliamperage, and kilovoltage.

Technical Aspects of X-ray Machines

• A penetrating beam of energy that records image shadows is called x-radiation.
• The recording medium used in dental radiography is often film or digital sensors.
• Dexis introduced the first intraoral imaging sensor in 1987.

Device Functions and Regulations

• The position-indicating device (PID) in x-ray machines helps to direct the x-ray beam at the receptor.
• Dental x-ray machines manufactured after 1974 must adhere to specific safety regulations.
• The timer in intraoral dental x-ray machines controls the duration of the x-ray exposure.

Additional Imaging Considerations

• A bite-block aids in holding the receptor in place during intraoral x-rays.
• Various types of receptor holders include film holders and sensor holders which assist in proper positioning.
• A collimating device is used to restrict the size of the x-ray beam, enhancing patient safety and image quality.