History and Basics
He discovered x-rays on November 8, 1895.
Who is Wilhelm Conrad Roentgen?
The three primary components of a dental x-ray machine.
What are the tubehead, extension arm, and control panel?
The three main types of radiation.
What are primary, secondary, and scatter radiation?
The acronym that stands for the radiation protection philosophy "As Low As Reasonably Achievable".
What is ALARA?
He was the first person to make practical use of radiographs in dentistry.
Who is C. Edmund Kells?
The negative electrode inside the x-ray tube.
What is the cathode?
The term used to describe a dark or black area on a radiograph where radiation easily passed through.
What is radiolucent?
The minimum distance in feet that a dental assistant should always stand away from the primary beam.
What is 6 feet?
The process by which electrons are removed from electrically stable
What is ionization?
The positive electrode inside the x-ray tube, containing the tungsten target.
What is the anode?
The exposure factor that directly controls the contrast of an image.
What is kilovoltage peak (kVp)?
The device worn by dental personnel to measure and record any occupational exposure to radiation.
What is a film badge (or dosimeter)?
The time period that elapses between exposure to radiation and the appearance of clinical signs or symptoms.
What is the latent period?
During the production of x-rays, this percentage of energy is lost as heat, requiring oil inside the tubehead to absorb it.
What is 99%?
The overall darkness or blackness of a radiographic image.
What is density?
This should never happen if the tubehead drifts; the patient should never do this to stabilize it.
What is hold or stabilize the tubehead with their hands?