Dental Radiography 1 - Parallel Technique

Dental Assisting

Materials Included

Text
Video
Anatomy
Simulation
Quiz

This module is part of a 2-volume set. Part I of this module explains the dental assistant’s role in dental radiography procedures; including bitewing and periapical full mouth series radiographs, utilizing the paralleling technique. The paralleling technique is the most commonly used technique for exposing periapical and bitewing radiographs because it creates the most accurate representation of a tooth image. It refers to the receptor being positioned parallel to the full length (long axis) of the tooth being radiographed. The central x-ray beam is then aligned perpendicular to the tooth being radiographed. Film holding devices, such as the XCP (extension-cone paralleling) device are explained in this module, along with the 5 basic rules for performing the paralleling technique.

Introduction

Step 1 - Preparation

Step 1.1 - Equipment preparation

Step 1.2 - Dental assistant preparation

Step 1.3 - Patient preparation

Step 2 - Bitewing radiograph procedure

Step 2.1 - Film placement and exposure

Step 2.2 - End of procedure

Step 3 - Full-mouth radiograph procedure

Step 3.1 - Film placement and exposure

Step 4 - Complete the procedure

Step 4.1 - Post-procedure steps

Step 4.2 - Film processing

Step 4.2.1 - Darkroom procedures

Step 4.2.2 - Automatic processing

Step 4.2.3 - Manual processing

Step 4.3 - Radiograph mounting

Describe pre-procedure considerations for dental radiography procedures utilizing the paralleling technique.
Describe and demonstrate the preparation for dental radiography procedures utilizing the paralleling technique.
Understand radiation safety protocols for dental radiography procedures.
Demonstrate the correct placement and exposure of bitewing radiographs utilizing beam alignment devices for both films and digital sensors.
Demonstrate the correct placement and exposure of a full-mouth series of radiographs utilizing the paralleling technique, with beam alignment devices for both films and digital sensors.
Understand the correct procedures for processing film.
Understand concepts of mounting radiographs.
Know the correct post-procedure considerations.
Define and demonstrate correct recording and reporting procedures.
Define and use related medical terminology.
Describe clinical safety according to Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) guidelines.
Understand the impact of the state Dental Practice Act.
Explain the Patient Privacy Rule (HIPAA), Patient Safety Act, and Patients' Bill of Rights.

The SIMTICS modules are all easy to use and web-based. This means they are available at any time as long as the learner has an internet connection. No special hardware or other equipment is required, other than a computer mouse for use in the simulations. Each of the SIMTICS modules covers one specific procedure or topic in detail. Each module contains:

an online simulation (available in Learn and Test modes)
descriptive text, which explains exactly how to perform that particular procedure including key terms and hyperlinks to references
2D images and a 3D model of applied anatomy for that particular topic
a step by step video demonstration by an expert
a quiz
a personal logbook that keeps track of all the modules the learner has studied and how long