Radiation Basics
The energy used to produce radiation
X-radiation
Two types of radiation injury to cells
Direct and indirect
ALARA stands for
As Low As Reasonably Achievable
Technique that uses a receptor placed parallel to long axis of tooth
Paralleling technique
Radiolucency appears on a radiograph in what way
Dark/black
Two electrical factors that control the quantity and quality of the X-ray beam
mA = quantity, kVp = quality
Type of radiation injury that occurs when radiation interacts directly with DNA
Direct injury
Recommended distance an operator should stand from X-ray source during exposure
At least 6 feet
The radiographic error occurs when the X-ray beam is directed at too steep of a vertical angle
Foreshortening
Radiopaqueness appears on a radiograph in what way
White/light
Two main components of the X-ray machine that produce X-rays
Cathode and anode
Type of radiation effect has no threshold dose and increases in probability with increased exposure
Stochastic exposure
Angle should dental radiographer stand at when exposing
90-135 degrees to central ray
Radiographic error that causes teeth to appear too long
Elongation
Radiographic appearance commonly associated with dental caries
Radiolucent areas
What happens to wavelength of X-rays when their energy increases
Wavelength decreases
Type of radiation effect has a threshold dose and increases in severity as exposure increases
Non-stochastic effect
Three basic principles of radiation protection
Time, distance, and shielding
What causes a cone cut on a dental radiographer
Improper alignment of PID with the image receptor
Loss of lamina dura around a tooth potentially indicates what
Term for the process in which high-speed electrons strike the tungsten target and produce X-rays
Bremsstrahlung radiation
Cells are more radiosensitive: Cells that divide rapidly or cells that divide slowly
Rapidly dividing cells
Type of device used to monitor an individual's occupational radiation exposure
Dosimeter
Recommended vertical angulation for a standard bitewing
10+ degrees
Radiographic term for bone loss that occurs evenly across alveolar crest
Horizontal bone loss