Dental Radiology Syllabus for 2016-2017
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Course

DNTA-1205-001 Dental Radiology

Prerequisites

Course Description

Introduction to radiation physics, radiation protection and the operation of radiographic equipment. Instruction in exposure, processing and mounting of dental radiographs, and study of federal and state safety and standard practices.

Student Resources Student Resources Website

Department Expectations

Occupational License Disclaimer

Hours

(2 sem hrs; 2 lec, 1 lab)

Class Type

On Campus Course

Syllabus Information

Textbooks

Required Textbook

1.) Dental Radiography: Principles and Techniques, 5th ed., Joen M. Iannuci, Laura Jansen Howerton, W.B. Saunders Company

2.) Modern Dental Assisting, 11^th Ed., Doni Bird, Debbie S. Robinson; Saunders Elsevier, Inc

Recommended Textbook

2.) Excercises in Oral Radiology and Interpretation, 4th ed., Robert P. Langlais, W. B. Saunders Company.

For E-Book, the instructor may offer highlights for students to subscribe to. The student will be expected to know not only the information in the highlighted sections but ALL information provided via textbook, lecture, lab, assignments, etc. Do not rely on only the highlighted text.

 

Supplies

Course Supply List

Pens and Pencils

Computer or Internet Access for BlackBoard (Home, Public Library, AC Computer Lab)

Dosimeter

RINN

1 Gallon Zip Bag

1 Folder/ Binder

Proper clinical attire is required. Students will need to review BlackBoard Announcements and the course outline for specific duties of each class period. Most classes will need RINN and other radiology related items including the current textbook.

Student Performance

Given the course textbooks, personal notes, handouts, and other course materials, the student should:

1.) Learn the terminology, facts, theories, methods, and principles, associated with dental radiology as outlined in the daily objectives and in the course schedule.

2.) Apply the knowledge learned to a laboratory simulation or clinical patient.

3.) Evaluate the learning experiences as measured by the course objectives.

Unit 1 Objectives

Chapter 1-History of Dental Radiography

1. Be aware of the history of dental radiography and note important contributors
2. Be able to identify basic dental terms
3. List five uses of dental radiography

Chapter 2-Characteristics and Measurement of Radiation

1. Identify the structures of an Atom
2. Describe the process of ionization
3. Understand the difference between radiation and radioactivity
4. List the properties of x-rays
5. List and describe the four possible interactions of dental x-rays with matter

Chapter 3-The Dental X-ray Machine: Components and Functions

1. Identify the three major components of the dental x-ray machine
2. Identify and explain the functions on the Control Panel
3. Draw and Label and X-Ray Tube
4. Identify the parts and function of the Cathode
5. Identify the parts and function of the Anode
6. Describe the step-by-step process of how x-rays are produced

Chapter 4-Radiation Biology

1. Define key words associated with radiation injury
2. Describe Mechanisms, theories, and sequence of radiation injury
3. Define and discuss the dose-response curve and radiation injury
4. List the determining factors for radiation injury
5. Discuss the short-term and long-term effects as well as the somatic and genetic effects of radiation exposure
6. Describe the effects of radiation exposure on cells, tissues, and organs
7. Identify the relative sensitivity of a given tissue to radiation
8. Define the units of measurement used in radiation exposure
9. List common sources of radiation exposure
10. Discuss risk and risk estimates for radiation exposure
11. Discuss dental radiation and exposure risk
12. Discuss the risk versus benefit of dental radiographs

Chapter 5 Radiation Protection

1. Define key words associated with radiation protection
2. Describe in detail the basics of patient protection before x-ray exposure
3. Discuss the different types of filtration, and state the recommended total filtration for dental x-rays machines operating above and below 70 kVp
4. Describe collimator used in dental x-ray machines
5. List 6 ways to protect the patient from excessive radiation during exposure

Unit II Objectives

Chapter 6 Dental X-Ray Equipment

1. Define key words associated with dental x-ray equipment
2. Discuss regulation of dental x-ray equipment
3. Recognize dental x-ray equipment used for intraoral and extraoral films
4. Identify the component parts of the dental x-ray machine
5. Describe the purpose and use of dental x-ray films holders
6. Identify commonly used dental x-ray film holders and devices

Ch. 7 - Dental X-ray Film

1.         Describe in detail film composition and latent image formation.

2.         List and describe the different types of x-ray film used in dentistry.

3.         Define intraoral film and describe intraoral film packaging.

4.         Identify the types and sizes of intraoral film available.

5.         Discuss film speed.

6.         Discuss the differences between intraoral film and extraoral film.

7.         Describe the difference between screen and nonscreen films.

8.         Describe the use of intensifying screens and cassettes.

9.         Describe duplicating film.

10.        Discuss proper film storage and protection.

Ch. 8 - Dental X-ray Image Characteristics

1. Differentiate between radiolucent and radiopaque areas on a dental radiograph.
2. Describe a diagnostic dental radiograph.
3. List the two visual characteristics of the radiographic image.
4. List the factors that influence film density and contrast.
5. Discuss the difference between high and low contrast.
6. Describe film contrast and subject contrast.
7. Describe the difference between short-scale and long-scale contrast.
8. Identify images of high contrast, low contrast, no contrast, short-scale contrast, and long-scale contrast.
9. Describe a stepwedge.
10. List the three geometric characteristics of the radiographic image.
11. List the factors that influence sharpness, magnification, and distortion

 

Ch. 9 - Dental X-ray film Processing

1.         Describe in detail how a latent image becomes a visible image.

2.         List and discuss the five steps of film processing.

3.         List and describe the four basic ingredients of the developer solution.

4.         List and describe the four basic ingredients of the fixer solution.

5.         Discuss the location, size, lighting, and equipment requirements necessary for the darkroom.

6.         Discuss safelighting.

7.         Discuss the parts of the processing tanks, master tank, and lid.

8.         List and describe the equipment needed for manual film processing.

9.         List and discuss the step-by-step procedures for manual film processing.

10.        Describe the care and maintenance of the processing solutions, equipment, and equipment accessories used in manual film processing.

11.        Discuss the advantages of automatic film processing.

12.        List and identify the component parts of the automatic film processor.

13.        Describe the mechanism of automatic film processing.

14.        List and discuss the step-by-step procedures used for automatic film processing.

15.        Describe the care and maintenance of the automatic film processor and automatic processing solutions.

16.        Discuss the equipment requirements and step-by-step procedures used for film duplication.

17.        Describe film processing problems that result from time and temperature errors.

18.        Describe film processing problems that result from chemical contamination errors.

19.        Describe film processing problems that result from film handling errors.

20.        Describe film processing problems that result from lighting errors.

 

Ch. 10 - Quality Assurance in the Dental Office

1.         List quality control tests and quality administration procedures that should be included in             the quality assurance plan.

2.         Discuss the purpose and frequency of testing dental x-ray machines.

3.         Describe the tests used to check for fresh film and adequate film-screen contact.  Discuss the frequency of testing and the interpretation of test results.

4.         Describe the test used to check for darkroom light leaks and proper safelighting.  Discuss the frequency of testing and the interpretation of test results.

5.         Describe the test used to check the automatic processor.  Discuss the frequency of testing and the interpretation of test results.

6.         List three tests used to check the strength of the developer solution.

7.         Describe the preparation of the reference radiograph and the standard stepwedge radiograph.  Discuss the use of these radiographs to compare film densities and to monitor the strength of developer solution.

8.         Describe the test used to check the strength of the fixer.  Discuss the frequency of testing and the interpretation of test results.

9.         Discuss the basic elements of a quality administration plan.

10.        Detail the importance of operator competence in dental radiographic procedures.

1. Describe the importance of receptor handling and processing after patient exposure to x-radiation
2. Discuss operator protection
3. Describe personnel and equipment monitoring devices
4. Discuss radiation exposure guidelines
5. Discuss with the patient what radiation protection steps will be used before, during, and after exposure to x-radiation

Unit III Objectives

Ch. 15 - Infection Control and the Dental Radiographer

1. Define the key terms listed.

2.  Describe the rationale for infection control.

3. Describe three possible routes of disease transmission.

4. Describe the conditions that must be present for disease transmission to occur.

5. Discuss protective attire and barrier techniques, handwashing and care of hands, sterilization or disinfection of instruments, and the cleaning and disinfection of the dental unit and environmental surfaces.

6. Detail infection control procedures necessary before x-ray exposure.

7.  Detail infection control procedures necessary during x-ray exposure.

8.  Detail infection control procedures necessary after x-ray exposure.

9.  Detail infection control procedures necessary for processing.

10. Discuss film handling in the darkroom with and without barrier envelopes.

11. Discuss film handling without barrier envelopes using the daylight loader of an automatic processor.

Chapter 16 Introduction to Radiographic Examination

1. Define key terms associated with radiographic examinations
2. List 3 types of intraoral radiographic examinations
3. Describe the purpose and types of image receptors for intraoral imaging
4. List the general diagnostic criteria for intraoral radiographs
5. List examples of extraoral radiographic examinations
6. Discuss the prescribing of dental radiographs

 

Ch. 17 - Paralleling Technique

1.         State the basic principle of the paralleling technique and illustrate the placement of the film, film holder, position-indicating device (PID), and central ray.

2.         Discuss how object-film distance affects the radiographic image and how target-film distance is used to compensate for such changes.

3.         List the film holders that can be used with the paralleling technique.

4.         Describe why a film holder is necessary with the paralleling technique.

5.         Describe the different sizes of film used with the paralleling technique and how each film is placed in the bite-block.

6.         State the five basic rules of the paralleling technique.

7.         Describe the patient and equipment preparations that are necessary before using the paralleling technique.

8.         Discuss the exposure sequence for 15 periapical film placements using the paralleling technique.

9.         Describe each of the 15 periapical film placements recommended for use with the XCP instruments.

10.        Summarize the guidelines for periapical film positioning.

11.        Explain the modifications in the paralleling technique that are used for a patient with a shallow palate, bony growths, or a sensitive premolar region.

12.        List the advantages and disadvantages of the paralleling technique.

Ch. 18 - Bisecting Technique

1.         State the rule of isometry.

2.         State the basic principles of the bisecting technique and illustrate the location of the film,            tooth imaginary bisector, central ray, and position-indicating device (PID).

3.         List the film holders that can be used with the bisecting technique.

4.         Describe the finger-holding method of film stabilization.

5.         List the disadvantages of the finger-holding method.

6.         Describe the film size used with the bisecting technique.

7.         Describe correct and incorrect horizontal angulation.

8.         Describe correct and incorrect vertical angulation.

9.         State each of the recommended vertical angulation ranges used for periapical exposures in the bisecting technique.

10.        State the basic rules of the bisecting technique.

11.        Describe the patient and equipment preparations necessary prior to using the bisecting technique.

12.        Discuss the exposure sequence used for the 14 periapical film placements used in the bisecting technique.

13.        Describe each of the 14 periapical film placements recommended for use with the bisecting technique.

14.        List the advantages and disadvantages of the bisecting technique.

Ch. 19 - Bite-Wing Technique

1.         Describe the purpose and use of the bite-wing film.

2.         Describe the appearance of opened and overlapped contact areas on a dental radiograph.

3.         State the basic principles of the bite-wing technique.

4.         List the two ways a film can be stabilized in the bite-wing technique and identify which one is recommended for bite-wing exposures.

5.         List the four film sizes that can be used in the bite-wing technique and identify which film size is recommended for exposures in the adult patient.

6.         Describe correct and incorrect horizontal angulation.

7.         Describe the difference between positive and negative vertical angulation.

8.         State the recommended vertical angulation for all bite-wing exposures.

9.         State the basic rules for the bite-wing technique.

10.        Describe the patient and equipment preparations that are necessary before using the bite-wing technique.

11.        Discuss the exposure sequence for a complete mouth radiographic series (CMRS) that includes both periapical and bite-wing exposures.

12.        Describe the premolar and molar bite-wing film placements.

13.        Describe the purpose an use of vertical bite-wings.  List the number of exposures and the size of film used in the vertical bite-wing technique.

Ch. 20 - Exposure and Technique Errors

1.         Identify and describe the appearance of the following film exposure errors: unexposed film, film exposed to light, underexposed film, and overexposed film.

2.         Describe horizontal and vertical angulation.

3.         Identify and describe the appearance of the following periapical technique errors: incorrect horizontal angulation, incorrect vertical angulation (foreshortened images and elongated images), and incorrect beam alignment (cone-cut images).

4.         Describe and identify proper film placement for bite-wing radiographs.

5.         Identify and describe the appearance of the following bite-wing technique errors:             incorrect horizontal angulation, incorrect vertical angulation, and incorrect position-indicating device (PID) alignment (cone-cut images).

6.         Identify and describe the appearance of the following miscellaneous technique errors: film bending, film creasing, phalangioma, double exposure, movement, and reversed film.

Unit IV Objectives

Ch. 11 - Dental Radiographs and the Dental Radiographer

1.         Discuss the importance of dental radiographs.

2.         List the uses of dental radiographs.

3.         Discuss the benefits of dental radiographs.

4.         List examples of common dental conditions that may be evident on a dental radiograph.

5.         Discuss the knowledge and skill requirements of the dental radiographer.

6.         List the responsibilities that may be assigned to the dental radiographer.

7.         Discuss the professional goals of the dental radiographer.

 

Ch. 12 - Patient Relations and the Dental Radiographer

1.         Discuss verbal, nonverbal, and listening skills and explain how each can be used to enhance communication.

2.         Discuss how facilitative skills can be used to enhance patient trust.

3.         Define a relationship of trust between the dental professional and the patient.

4.         Discuss the importance of the first impressions, Chairside manner, and attitude and explain how each can enhance patient relations.

 

Ch. 13 - Patient Education and the Dental radiographer

1. Summarize the importance of educating patients about dental radiographs.
2. List the three methods that can be used by the dental radiographer to educate patients about dental radiographs.
3. Answer common patient questions about the need for dental radiographs, x-ray exposure, the safety of dental x-rays, digital imaging, and other miscellaneous concerns.

 

Ch. 14 - Legal Issues and the Dental radiographer

1.            Define the key terms associated with legal issues.

2.            List the federal and state regulations affecting the use of dental x-ray equipment.

3.            Describe the general application of federal and state regulations as they affect the dental auxiliary.

4.            Describe the licensure requirements for exposing dental radiographs.

5.            Define the legal concept of informed consent.

6.            Describe how to obtain informed consent from a patient.

7.            Discuss the legal significance of the dental record.

8.            Describe the legal implications of patient refusal to have dental x-radiation.

9.            Discuss how confidentiality laws affect the information in  the dental record.

10.          Describe the patient’s rights with regard to the dental record.

 

 

Students Rights and Responsibilities

Student Rights and Responsibilities

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Expected Student Behavior

"Amarillo College expects a high standard of conduct from it's students. Students are expected to comply with the law, respect proper constitutiional authority, obey College policies, rules and regulations. Unacceptable conduct is defined as an action or behavior that is contrary to the best interest of a fellow student of students, the faculty or staff, the College, or the teaching/learning process. Students failing to  perform according to established standards may be subject to disciplinary action. Policies, standards, rules, and regulations apply to students attending College activities whether the activity taqkes place on or off campus.

Each student shall be responsible for becoming knowledgeable of the contents and provisions of College policies, rules and regulations concerning student conduct .  In some cases, individual programs may have approved policies for student conduct which also apply to student conduct in those programs."

ACADEMIC GRIEVANCES

A student who has a grievance concerning an academic course in which he or she is enrolled is directed to appeal in the following order:  (1) Instructor  (2)  Program Director  (3)  Dean of Health Sciences Division  (4)  Vice President of Academic Affairs and  (5) College President

 

Professional Standards

For maximum learning to occur, the student is expected ti demonstrate professional conduct and judgment at all times. A violation of professional or ethical standard may result in a zero for the day as well as the student being sent home with an absence. The following are examples which are considered professional standards. These are representative examples and may not be all inclusive.

1. Student is prompt to class.

2. Student is prepared for class sessions.

3. Student assumes responsibility for his/her own learning.

4. Student is concerned with excellence in learning rather than just meeting the minimal criteria.

5. Student applies lecture material in the clinical setting.

6. Student will seek faculty assistance if needed, and will monitor their own progress in meeting course requirements.

7. Student maintains his/her composure, dealing with conflict in a constructive way.

8. Student exhibits an attitude  of respect for classmates, faculty, and staff.

9. Student will not be disruptive or talk to each other during lectures, slide presentations, guest lectures, etc. Should this occur, the student will be asked to leave the classroom immediately.

Failure to adhere to the above standards, will result in remediation and be reflected in the grade for the course in which the inappropriate conduct is displayed. 

Infection Control

“The Dental Assisting Program is committed to utilizing the most current research and technology to maintain an infection control program that is practical while meeting regulatory requirements. The policy for infection control procedures must be followed in strict compliance for the protection of patients, students, faculty, and staff from the transmission of disease or the spread of blood borne pathogens. All dental assisting students, faculty, and staff have the responsibility and ethical duty to comply with the infection control procedures".

Grading Criteria

Lecture Examinations and Quizzes

Students will be given 4 lecture examinations and several quizzes throughout the course. Exams and Quizzes will be objective in nature (true/false and multiple choice) as well as subjective (short answer, fill in the blank, and essay). The Final Exam will be objective.

Laboratory Assignments

Students will complete several laboratory assignments throughout the course. Specific instructions and grading rubrics will be given for each assignment and located on the grading forms.

Laboratory Competency

Students will be required to complete Competency Examinations in the Lab. These Examinations will assess the student’s ability to competently acquire radiographic images on a manikin prior to exposing live patients. The following grading rubric is used for competency evaluations.

Letter Grade A demonstrates a “Mastery Level” of Competence. Letter grade B demonstrates “Competence” with need for remediation. Letter grade C or below will require remediation and re-testing. A minimum level of Competency must be obtained in order to complete this skills assessment. 93-100=A; 83-92=B; 75-82=C

Grading Criteria

Major Exams           40%

Lab Competency     15%

Quizzes                  10%

Assignments           10%

Final                       25%

The following grading scale will be used for all Dental Assisting Courses:

A =  93 to 100

B =  83 to 92

C = 75 to 82
 

F = Below 75

In order to be fair to students who are present and perform the required tasks and because of time restraints, most missed work, especially lab and clinical work can not be made up. Lab and clinical assignments involve the use of a partner. Without you they can not perform their assignments.

Clinical work performed in the radiology area and with Dexter manikins is difficult to make up. We have limited time due to sharing the facility with the dental hygiene students and serving rotations within our own class. In order for you to be successful in this course, it is imperative that you respect your reserved time and keep up with the course work.

Missed written exams maybe made up on the designated "make-up" days. These dates will be given at the start of the class. In order to be fair to the students who take the exam at the scheduled time, Make-up exams will lose 5% of their original value. Please note that make-up exams are most often one to five essay type questions.

All students are responsible for his/her own learning. The student is expected to monitor their progress and should they have any questions or concerns, contact the instructor for assistance. Review and Remediation will be made mandatory and available throughout the course and will be documented. The instructor can assist with identifying the need for remediation, but the student should also identify their own needs and notify the instructor in a timely manner so that remediation can be provided prior to the end of the course.

Attendance

Regular attendance is necessary for satisfactory achievement. Therefore, it is the responsibility of the student to attend class. Due to the amount of information contained in this course, the student who plans to succeed should attend all course sessions regulary and promptly. The student will need to come to class on time, fully prepared for that session, with the necessary materials. There may be times when it is impossible to attend class due to illness or an emergency, but this course covers so much information in class that an absence can get the student behind and thus, miss some vital questions on an exam. In order to be fair, there is no distinction between an excused or unexcused absence. You may have up to 3 (three) absences in this class without affecting your grade. The 4th (fourth) absence will reduce the overall grade by 10 points. Missing 5 class periods is equal to missing 1/3rd of the semester and thus, 1/3rd of the vital skills for your chosen profession.

Calendar

Additional Information

The instructor reserves the right to make changes to the course calendar to meet course objectives.
 

 ELECTRONIC AND RECORDING DEVICES

In order to create a proper learning environment, free of unneccessary distractions, all electronic devices are prohibited in this course.

Cell phones maybe checked at designated break times. Any student that is found texting or talking on their phones during ANY part of class, clinical or lab experience will be asked to leave class for that day and receive a grade of zero for that time period. The AC police may also be called during an EMERGENCY.. that number is  806-371-5163