Dental Radiology Syllabus for 2016-2017
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Course

DHYG-1304-002 Dental Radiology

Prerequisites

Course Description

Fundamentals of oral radiography, including techniques, interpretation, quality assurance and ethics.

Student Resources Student Resources Website

Department Expectations

Occupational License Disclaimer

Hours

(3 sem hrs; 2 lec, 4 lab)

Class Type

On Campus Course

Syllabus Information

Textbooks

Required Course Textbooks

Students MUST have the current edition of the required textbook and workbook and must bring both books to all scheduled lecture and laboratory sessions.

1. Dental Radiography:  Principles and Techniques, 5^th ed., Joen M. Iannucci, Laura Jansen Howerton, W.B. Saunders Company.
2. Dental Radiography: A Workbook and Laboratory Manual, (Companion for Dental Radiography:  Principles and Techniques, 5^th ed.), Joen M. Iannucci, Laura Jansen Howerton, W.B. Saunders Company.
3. Amarillo College Dental Hygiene Program Manual  2016 -2017

Recommended Course Textbook   (Board Review Book of choice.  Example book listed below)

1. Darby's Comprehensive Review of Dental Hygiene, 8^th ed., Michele Darby, Mosby Publishing Company.

Supplies

Course Supply List

1. Library Card for AC and/or city library
2. Computer and Internet Access, printer, print cartridges
3. Index cards – if preferred for note taking, Sharpie Marker and 1 Pocket Folder or small three ring binder for maintaining radiographic projects and storing handouts
4. A small number of Scantron Forms (form 882-E: for 100 questions – 50 questions on each side), paper, pens, markers, and pencils
5. RINN XCP Device and Snap-A-Ray – X-Ray receptor holding devices
6. Students will be required to have a tablet or laptop for this course.  The tablet is preferred due to ease of use in the lab setting.  This purchase can be made in the AC Bookstore.  Students are required to have regular, reliable access to a computer with a stable Internet connection. (Any system older than 4 years may not have the processing power to work with our current version of Blackboard and its components.) 
7. Students will also

Student Performance

End-of-Course Outcomes

Explain the principles of radiation as it relates to physics, biology, hygiene, and safety; produce and interpret diagnostically acceptable radiographs utilizing various radiographic techniques; apply the principles of quality assurance and ethics in dental radiography; and describe the fundamentals of oral radiographic techniques and interpretation.

Course Overview

DHYG 1304 is included in the Dental Hygiene curriculum to provide the dental hygiene student with knowledge of the production and use of radiographs in dentistry; the interaction of x-rays with human tissues; radiographic quality and interpretation; and legal and ethical issues related to dental radiography.  This knowledge and the acquired entry-level skills will be applied in a clinical setting by correctly and safely producing diagnostic radiographs.

Instructor Objectives for the Course

Chapter objectives will coordinate with the materials presented in lecture, handouts, reading assignments, and examinations.  Learning the objectives will be required of the student in order to be successful in the completion of the written and practical examinations and in laboratory exercises. 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.

The student will know that these goals have been successfully completed if after evaluated by course instructor, a minimal grade of 75 or greater is earned.

 

Unit I Objectives:  Chs. 22, 2, 19 & 3

Ch. 22 - Panoramic Imaging

1. Define the key terms associated with panoramic imaging.
2. Describe the purpose and uses of panoramic imaging.
3. Describe the fundamentals of panoramic imaging.
4.  Describe the equipment used in panoramic imaging.
5. Describe patient preparation, equipment preparation, and patient positioning procedures needed before exposing a panoramic projection.
6. Describe a diagnostic panoramic image.
7.  Identify the patient preparation and patient positioning errors seen on panoramic images, discuss the causes of these errors, and describe the necessary measures needed to correct such errors.
8. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of panoramic imaging.

Ch. 2 - Radiation Physics

1. Define the key terms associated with radiation physics.
2. Identify the structure of the atom.
3. Describe the process of ionization.
4. Discuss the difference between radiation and radioactivity.
5. List the two types of ionizing radiation and give examples of each.
6. List the characteristics of electromagnetic radiation.
7. List the properties of x-radiation.
8. Identify the component parts of the x-ray machine.
9. Label the parts of the dental x-ray tubehead and the dental x-ray tube.
10. Describe in detail how dental x-rays are produced.
11. List and describe the possible interactions of x-rays with matter.

Ch. 19 - Bite-Wing Technique

1. Define the key terms associated with the bite-wing technique.
2. Describe the purpose and use of the bite-wing image.
3. Describe the appearance of opened and overlapped contact areas on a bite-wing image.
4. State the basic principles of the bite-wing technique.
5. List the two ways a receptor can be stabilized in the bite-wing technique and identify which one is recommended for bite-wing exposures.
6. List the three receptor sizes that can be used in the bite-wing technique and identify which size is recommended for exposures in the adult patient.
7. Describe correct and incorrect horizontal angulation.
8. Describe the difference between positive and negative vertical angulation.
9. State the recommended vertical angulation for all bite-wing exposures using a bite-wing tab.
10. State the basic rules for the bite-wing technique.
11. Describe patient and equipment preparations that are necessary before using the bite-wing technique.
12. Discuss the exposure sequence for a complete mouth series (CMS) that includes both periapical and bite-wing exposures.
13. Describe the correct premolar and molar bite-wing receptor placements.
14. Describe the purpose and use of vertical bite-wing images.
15. List the number of exposures and the size of receptor used in the vertical bite-wing technique.
16. Discuss modifications in the bite-wing technique for patients who have edentulous spaces or bony growths.

Ch. 3 - Radiation Characteristics

1. Define the key terms associated with radiation characteristics.
2. Describe the effect that the kilovoltage has on the quality of the x-ray beam and identify the range of kilovoltage required for dental imaging.
3. Describe how kilovoltage affects the density and contrast of the image.
4. Describe how milliamperage influences the quantity of the x-ray beam and identify the range of milliamperage required for dental imaging.
5. Describe how milliamperage affects the density of the image and how exposure time and milliamperage are related.
6. Describe how kilovoltage, milliamperage, exposure time, and source-to-receptor distance influence the intensity of the x-ray beam.
7. Calculate an example of radiation intensity using the inverse square law.
8. Explain how the half-value layer determines the penetrating quality of the x-ray beam.

 

Unit II Objectives: Chs. 4, 5, 1, & 17

Ch. 4 - Radiation Biology

1. Define the terms associated with radiation injury.
2. Describe the mechanisms and theories of radiation injury.
3. Define and discuss the dose-response curve and radiation injury.
4. Describe the sequence of radiation injury and 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 and identify the relative sensitivity of a given tissue to x-radiation.
7. Define the units of measurement used in radiation exposure.
8. List common sources of radiation exposure.
9. Discuss risk and risk estimates for radiation exposure.
10. Discuss dental radiation and exposure risks.
11. Discuss the risk versus benefit of dental images.

Ch. 5 - Radiation Protection

1. Define the key terms 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-ray machines operating above and below 70 kV.
4. Describe the collimator used in dental x-ray machines and state the recommended diameter of the useful beam at the patient’s skin.
5. List six ways to protect the patient from excessive radiation during x-ray exposure.
6. Describe the importance of receptor handling and processing after patient exposure to x-radiation.
7. Discuss operator protection in terms of adequate distance, shielding, and avoidance of the useful beam.
8. Describe personnel and equipment monitoring devices used to detect radiation.
9. Discuss radiation exposure guidelines, including radiation safety legislation, maximum permissible dose (MPD), and the ALARA concept.
10. Discuss with the dental patient radiation protection steps used before, during, and after exposure to
    x-radiation.

Ch. 1 - Radiation History

1. Be able to define and differentiate between the basic terms that pertain to dentistry and x-radiation.
2. Summarize the importance of dental radiographs.
3. Explain the various uses of dental radiographs.
4. Summarize the discovery of x-radiation and the pioneers that contributed to its progression in dentistry.
5. List the highlights in the history of x-ray equipment, film and dental radiographic techniques.

Ch. 17 - Paralleling Technique

1. Define the key terms associated with the paralleling technique.
2. State the basic principle of the paralleling technique and illustrate the placement of the receptor, beam alignment device, position-indicating device (PID), and central ray.
3. Discuss how object-receptor distance affects the image and how target-receptor distance is used to compensate for such changes.
4. Describe why a beam alignment device is necessary with the paralleling technique.
5. List the beam alignment devices that can be used with the paralleling technique.
6. Identify and label the parts of the Rinn XCP instruments.
7. Describe the different sizes of receptors used with the paralleling technique and how each receptor is placed in the bite-block.
8. State the five basic rules of the paralleling technique.
9. Describe the patient and equipment preparations that are necessary before using the paralleling technique.
10. Discuss the exposure sequence for 15 periapical receptor placements using the paralleling technique; describe each of the 15 periapical receptor placements recommended for use with the Rinn XCP instruments.
11. Summarize the guidelines for periapical receptor positioning.
12. Explain the modifications in the paralleling technique that are used for a patient with a shallow palate, bony growths, or a sensitive premolar region.
13. List the advantages and disadvantages of the paralleling technique.

 

Unit III Objectives:  Chs. 7, 8, 9 & 10

Ch. 7 - Dental X-ray Film

1. Define the terms associated with dental x-ray film.
2. Discuss why the radiographer should be familiar with dental x-ray film.
3. Describe film composition and latent image formation.
4. List the different types of x-ray film used in dentistry.
5. Define intraoral film and describe intraoral film packaging.
6. Identify the types and sizes of intraoral film available.
7. Discuss film speed.
8. Define extraoral film and describe extraoral film packaging.
9. Discuss the differences between intraoral film and extraoral film and identify the types of extraoral film available.
10. Describe the difference between screen and nonscreen films.
11. Describe the use of intensifying screens and cassettes.
12. Describe duplicating film.
13. Discuss proper film storage and protection.

Ch. 8 - Dental X-ray Image Characteristics

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

Ch. 9 - Dental X-ray film Processing

1. Define the key terms associated with processing of dental x-ray film.
2. Briefly describe how a latent image becomes a visible image.
3. Discuss the advantages of automatic film processing.
4. List and identify the component parts of the automatic film processor.
5. Describe the mechanism of automatic film processing.
6. List and discuss the four procedural steps for automatic film processing.
7. Describe the care and maintenance of the automatic film processor and automatic processing solutions.
8. List and discuss the five steps of manual film processing.
9. List the four basic ingredients of the developer solution.
10. List the four basic ingredients of the fixer solution.
11. Identify the parts of the processing tank: insert tanks, master tank, and lid.
12. Identify the equipment accessories needed for manual film processing.
13. List the procedural steps for manual film processing.
14. Describe the care and maintenance of the processing solutions, equipment, and equipment accessories used in manual film processing.
15. Discuss the primary function of the darkroom, as well as the location and size requirements necessary for the darkroom.
16. Discuss room lighting and safelighting.
17. Discuss miscellaneous requirements necessary in the darkroom.
18. Discuss waste management of items used in the darkroom.
19. Discuss the equipment requirements and procedural steps for film duplication.
20. Describe film processing problems that result from time and temperature errors.
21. Describe film processing problems that result from chemical contamination errors.
22. Describe film processing problems that result from film handling errors.
23. Describe film processing problems that result from lighting errors.

Ch. 10 - Quality Assurance in the Dental Office

1. Define the key terms associated with quality assurance in the dental office.
2. List quality control tests and quality administration procedures that should be included in the quality assurance plan.
3. Discuss the purpose and frequency of testing dental x-ray machines.
4. Describe the tests used to check for fresh film and adequate screen-film contact; discuss the frequency of testing and the interpretation of test results.
5. Describe the test used to check for darkroom light leaks and proper safelighting; discuss the frequency of testing and the interpretation of test results.
6. Describe the test used to check the automatic processor; discuss the frequency of testing and the interpretation of test results.
7. List the three tests used to check the strength of the developer solution.
8. Describe the preparation of the reference radiograph and the standard stepwedge radiograph; discuss the use of these radiographs to compare densities and to monitor the strength of the developer solution.
9. Describe the test used to check the strength of the fixer; discuss the frequency of testing and the interpretation of test results.
10. Discuss quality control tests needed for digital imaging procedures.
11. Discuss the basic elements of a quality administration program.
12. Detail the importance of operator competence in dental radiographic procedures.

 

Unit IV Objectives: Chs. 27, 29, 20, 28, 21 & 18

Ch. 27 - Normal Anatomy: Intraoral Films

1. Define the key terms associated with normal anatomy on intraoral images.
2. State the difference between cortical and cancellous bone.
3. Define and discuss the general terms that describe prominences, spaces, and depressions in bone.
4. Do the following related to normal anatomic landmarks of the maxilla on a human skull.

• Identify and describe the normal anatomic landmarks of the maxilla on a human skull.
• Identify and describe the normal anatomic landmarks of the maxilla as viewed on dental images.
• Identify each normal landmark of the maxilla as either radiolucent or radiopaque as viewed on dental images.

5. Do the following related to normal anatomic landmarks of the mandible on a human skull:

• Identify and describe the normal anatomic landmarks of the mandible on a human skull.
• Identify and describe the normal anatomic landmarks of the maxilla as viewed on dental images.
• Identify each normal landmark of the mandible as either radiolucent or radiopaque as viewed on dental images.

6. Identify and describe the appearance of normal tooth anatomy and supporting structures as viewed on dental images; identify each normal tooth structure as radiolucent or radiopaque as viewed on dental images.
7. Identify the primary teeth and eruption patterns of the permanent teeth as viewed on dental images.

Ch. 29 - Normal Anatomy: Panoramic Films

1. Define the key terms associated with normal anatomy on panoramic images.
2. Identify and describe the bony landmarks of the maxilla and surrounding structures as viewed on the panoramic image.
3. Identify and describe the bony landmarks of the mandible and surrounding structures as viewed on the panoramic image.
4. Identify air spaces as viewed on the panoramic image.
5. Identify soft tissues as viewed on the panoramic image.

Ch. 20 - Exposure and technique Errors

1. Define the key terms associated with exposure and technique errors.
2. Identify and describe the appearance of the following exposure errors: unexposed receptor, film exposed to light, overexposed receptor, and underexposed receptor.
3. Identify and describe the appearances of the following periapical technique errors due to receptor placement: absence of apical structures and dropped receptor corner.
4. Describe horizontal and vertical angulation.
5. Identify and describe the appearances of the following periapical technique errors due to angulation problems: incorrect horizontal angulation (overlapped contacts), incorrect vertical angulation (foreshortened images and elongated images), and incorrect beam alignment (cone-cut images).
6. Describe and identify proper receptor placement for bite-wing images.
7. Identify and describe the appearances of the following bite-wing technique errors due to receptor placement: incorrect placement of premolar bite-wing and incorrect placement of molar bite-wing.
8. Identify and describe the appearances of the following bite-wing technique errors due to angulation problems: incorrect horizontal angulation (overlapped contacts), incorrect vertical angulation (distorted image), and incorrect position-indicating device (PID) alignment (cone-cut images).
9. Identify and describe the appearances of the following miscellaneous technique errors: bending, creasing, debris accumulation, phalangioma, double image, movement, and reversed/backward placement.

Ch. 28 - Film Mounting and Viewing

1. Define the key terms associated with film mounting and viewing.
2. Do the following related to film mounting:

• Define film mounting.
• List the individuals who are qualified to mount and view dental radiographs.
• Describe when and where films are mounted.
• List several reasons to use a film mount.
• Describe what information is placed on a film mount.
• Describe how mounts are used with digital imaging.

3. Discuss the importance of normal anatomy in film mounting.
4. Describe how the identification dot is used to determine film orientation.
5. List and describe two methods of film mounting and identify the preferred method.
6. List and describe the step-by-step procedures for film mounting.
7. Do the following related to viewing film:

• List the individuals who are qualified to view film.
• List and describe the necessary equipment for film viewing.
• Discuss the importance of masking extraneous viewbox light seen around a film mount.
• Describe optimal viewing conditions, as well as when and where images should be viewed.
• Explain the importance of examining images in an established viewing sequence.

8. List and describe the step-by-step procedures for film viewing and explain why multiple viewings of dental images are necessary, as well as list the areas, diseases, and abnormalities that must be included in the examinations.

Ch. 21 - Occlusal and Localization Techniques

1. Define the key terms associated with occlusal and localization techniques.
2. Describe the purpose of occlusal examination.
3. List the uses of occlusal examination and discuss the basic principles involved.
4. Describe the patient and equipment preparations that are necessary before using the occlusal technique.
5. State the recommended vertical angulations for the following maxillary occlusal projections: topographic, lateral (right or left), and pediatric.
6. State the recommended vertical angulations for the following mandibular occlusal projections: topographic, cross-sectional, and pediatric.
7. State the purpose of localization techniques and list their uses.
8. Describe the buccal object rule.
9. Describe the right-angle technique.
10. List the patient and equipment preparations that are necessary before using the buccal object rule or the right-angle technique.
11. Describe receptor placements for the buccal object rule and compare the resulting images.
12. Describe receptor placements for the right-angle technique and compare the resulting images.

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.

 

Unit V Objectives: Ch. 23, 24, 25, 26, 30 & 31                     

Ch. 23 - Extraoral Radiography

1. Define the key terms associated with extraoral imaging.
2. Describe the purpose and uses of extraoral imaging.
3. Describe the equipment used in extraoral imaging.
4. Detail the equipment and patient preparations necessary before exposing an extraoral projection.
5. Identify the purpose and describe the head position, the receptor placement, and the beam alignment for each of the following extraoral projections: lateral jaw projection—body of the mandible, lateral jaw projection—ramus of the mandible, lateral cephalometric projection, posteroanterior projection, Waters projection, submentovertex projection, reverse Towne projection, and transcranial projection.

Ch. 24 - Imaging of Patients with Special Needs

1. Define the key terms associated with patients who have special needs.
2. List the areas of the oral cavity that are most likely to elicit the gag reflex when stimulated.
3. List two precipitating factors responsible for initiating the gag reflex.
4. Describe how to control the gag reflex using operator attitude, patient and equipment preparations, exposure sequencing, and receptor placement and technique.
5. Describe common physical disabilities and what modifications in technique may be necessary during the imaging examination.
6. Describe common developmental disabilities and what modifications in technique may be necessary during the imaging examination.
7. List helpful hints that can be used when treating a person with a disability.
8. Describe the tooth eruption sequences, prescribing of dental images, recommended techniques, types of examinations, digital sensor issues, patient and equipment preparation, and patient management pertaining to the pediatric dental patient.
9. Describe the use of receptor placement modifications and recommended periapical technique during endodontic (root canal) procedures.
10. Describe the purposes of the imaging examination in the edentulous patient.
11. List and describe the three types of imaging examination that may be used for the edentulous patient.

Ch. 25 - Digital Radiography

1.  Define the key terms associated with digital imaging.
2.  Describe the purpose and use of digital imaging.
3.  Discuss the fundamentals of digital imaging.
4.  Describe radiation exposure in digital imaging.
5.  List and describe the equipment used in digital imaging.
6.  List and describe the two types of digital imaging.
7.  Describe the patient and equipment preparations required for digital imaging.
8.  List and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of digital imaging.

Ch. 26 - Three-Dimensional Digital Imaging

1.  Define the key terms associated with three-dimensional digital imaging.
2.  Describe the fundamentals of three-dimensional digital imaging.
3.  Describe the training needed and equipment used in three-dimensional digital imaging.
4.  Discuss the common uses of three-dimensional digital imaging.
5.  Detail the equipment and patient preparation necessary before exposure to x-radiation using three-dimensional digital imaging.
6.  Identify advantages and disadvantages of three-dimensional digital imaging.

Ch. 30- Introduction to Image Interpretation

1.  Define the key terms associated with interpreting images.
2.  Summarize the importance of the interpretation of images.
3.  Describe who is able to interpret images by defining the roles of the dentist and the dental auxiliary in the interpretation of dental images.
4.  Discuss the difference between interpretation and diagnosis.
5.  Describe when and where dental images are interpreted.
6.  Discuss the sequence for interpreting images.
7.  Describe how interpretation is documented.
8.  Describe how interpretation can be used to educate the dental patient about the importance and use of dental images.

Ch. 31 - Descriptive Terminology

1.  Define descriptive terminology, describe why the dental professional should use descriptive terms, and differentiate between descriptive terminology and diagnosis.
2.  Compare and contrast the terms radiolucent and radiopaque.
3.  Do the following related to how to describe radiolucent lesions:

• Identify radiolucent lesions on a dental image in terms of appearance, location, and size.
• Define and discuss the terms unilocular and multilocular.
• Define and discuss the terms periapical, inter-radicular, edentulous zone, pericoronal, and alveolar bone loss in relation to radiolucent lesions

4. Do the following related to how to describe radiopaque lesions:

• Identify radiopaque lesions on a dental image in terms of appearance, location, and size.
• Define and discuss the terms focal opacity, target lesion, multifocal confluent pattern, irregular/ill-defined opacity, ground glass opacity, mixed lucent-opaque lesion, and soft tissue opacity.
• Define and discuss the terms periapical, inter-radicular, edentulous zone, and pericoronal in relation to radiopaque lesions.

 

Unit VI Objectives: Chs. 32, 33, 34 & 35

Ch. 32 - Identification of Restorations, Dental Materials, and Foreign Objects

1. Define the key terms associated with identifying restorations, materials, and foreign objects on dental images.
2. Discuss the importance of interpreting dental images while the patient is present.
3. On dental images, identify and describe the appearance of the following restorations: amalgam, gold, stainless steel and chrome, post and core, porcelain, porcelain-fused-to-metal, composite, and acrylic.
4. On dental images, identify and describe the appearance of the following: base materials, metallic pins, gutta percha, silver points, complete dentures, removable partial dentures, orthodontic bands, brackets and wires, fixed orthodontic retainers, dental implants, bone grafts, suture wires, metal splints and plates, bone screws, and stabilizing arches.
5. On dental images, identify and describe the appearance of the following: earrings, necklaces, nose jewelry, eyeglasses, patient napkin chains, hearing aids, shrapnel, and other miscellaneous objects.

Ch. 33 - Interpretation of Dental Caries

1. Define the key terms associated with the interpretation of dental caries.
2.  Describe dental caries.
3.  Do the following related to the detection of dental caries:

• Explain why caries appears radiolucent on a dental image.
• Discuss the importance of dental caries in relation to the clinical examination.
• Discuss the importance of dental caries in relation to the dental image examination.

4. Discuss interpretation tips for evaluating caries on a dental image.
5. Discuss the factors that may influence the image interpretation of dental caries.
6. Do the following related to classifying caries on dental images:

• Detail the classification of caries on dental images.
• On a dental image, identify and describe the appearance of the following: incipient, moderate, advanced, and severe interproximal caries.
• On a dental image, identify and describe the appearance of the following: incipient, moderate, and severe occlusal caries.
• On a dental image, identify and describe the appearance of the following: buccal, lingual, root surface, recurrent, and rampant caries.

7. On a dental image, identify conditions that may be confused with dental caries including cervical burnout, restorative materials, attrition, and abrasion.

Ch. 34 - Interpretation of Periodontal Disease

1. Define the key terms associated with interpreting periodontal disease.
2. Describe the healthy periodontium.
3. Briefly describe periodontal disease.
4. Do the following related to the detection of periodontal disease:

• Discuss the importance of the clinical examination.
• Discuss the importance of dental image examination, including different techniques used.
• Describe the limitations of dental images in the detection of periodontal disease.
• Describe the type of dental images that should be used to document periodontal disease and the preferred exposure technique.

5. Do the following related to the interpretation of periodontal disease on dental images:

• State the difference between horizontal bone loss and vertical bone loss.
• State the difference between localized bone loss and generalized bone loss.
• State the differences among mild, moderate, and severe bone loss.

6. List the American Dental Association (ADA) case types and describe the corresponding appearance on dental images and recognize the ADA case types on dental images.

7. List predisposing factors for periodontal disease and recognize and describe the appearance of calculus on dental images.

Ch. 35 - Interpretation of Trauma and Pulpal and Periapical Lesions

1. Define the key terms associated with the interpretation of trauma, resorption, pulpal and periapical lesions as viewed on a dental image.
2. Describe and identify the appearance of crown, root, and jaw fractures as viewed on a dental image.
3. Describe and identify the appearance of a luxation and an avulsed tooth as viewed on a dental image.
4. Describe and identify the appearance of external and internal resorption as viewed on a dental image.
5. Describe and identify the appearance of pulpal sclerosis, pulp canal obliteration, and pulp stones as viewed on a dental image.
6. Discuss periapical radiolucencies and describe the appearance of periapical granuloma, cyst, and abscess as viewed on a dental image, as well as explain what is necessary to establish a definitive diagnosis.
7. Discuss periapical radiopacities and describe and identify the appearance of condensing osteitis, sclerotic bone, and hypercementosis as viewed on a dental image.

 

Unit VII Chapters:  11, 12, 13, `4, & 15  (These chapters will be tested on the Final Exam only)

Ch. 11 - Dental Radiographs and the Dental Radiographer

1. Define the key terms associated with dental images.
2. Discuss the importance of dental images.
3. List the uses of dental images.
4. Discuss the benefits of dental images.
5. List examples of common dental conditions that may be evident on a dental image.
6. Discuss the knowledge and skill requirements of the dental radiographer.
7. List the duties and responsibilities that may be assigned to the dental radiographer.
8. Discuss the professional goals of the dental radiographer.

Ch. 12 - Patient Relations and the Dental Radiographer

1. Define the key terms associated with patient relations.
2. Discuss verbal, nonverbal, and listening skills, and explain how each can be used to enhance communication.
3. Discuss how facilitation skills can be used to enhance patient trust.
4. Define a relationship of trust between the dental professional and the patient.
5. Discuss the importance of first impressions, chairside manner, and attitude and explain how each can enhance patient relations.

Ch. 13 - Patient Education and the Dental radiographer

1. Define the key terms associated with patient education.
2. Summarize the importance of educating patients about dental images.
3. List the three methods that can be used by the dental radiographer to educate patients about dental images.
4. Answer common patient questions about the need for dental images, 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 key terms associated with legal issues.
2. List federal and state regulations affecting the use of dental x-ray equipment and describe the general application of federal and state regulations relating to the dental auxiliary.
3. Describe licensure requirements for exposing dental images.
4. Discuss risk management and define the legal concept of informed consent.
5. Describe ways to obtain informed consent from a patient.
6. Discuss dental malpractice issues, including negligence and standard of care.
7. Discuss the concept of statute of limitations and the legal significance of the dental record.
8. Discuss how confidentiality laws affect the information in the dental record.
9. Describe the patient’s rights with regard to the dental record.
10. Describe the legal implications of patient refusal to have dental x-ray images exposed.

Ch. 15 - Infection Control and the Dental Radiographer

1. Define the key terms associated with infection control.
2. Describe the rationale for infection control.
3. Describe the three possible routes of disease transmission.
4. Describe the conditions that must be present for disease transmission to occur.
5. Discuss personal protective equipment (PPE), hand hygiene, sterilization and disinfection of instruments, and the cleaning and disinfection of the dental unit and environmental surfaces.
6. Describe the infection control procedures that are necessary before x-ray exposure.
7. Describe the infection control procedures that are necessary during x-ray exposure.
8. Describe the infection control procedures that are necessary after x-ray exposure.
9. Describe the infection control procedures that are necessary for digital imaging.
10. Describe the infection control procedures that are necessary for film processing.
11. Discuss film handling in the darkroom—with and without barrier envelopes.
12. Discuss film handling without barrier envelopes using the daylight loader of an automatic processor.

Objectives for dentalcare.com Continuing Education Course Assignments:

 

Practical Panoramic Radiography – Course 71 

Upon the completion of this course, the student should be able to:

• Recognize the selection criteria and the indications for panoramic imaging.
• Compare and contrast panoramic and intraoral imaging.
• Outline the advantages and limitations of panoramic radiography.
• Discuss the principles and use of intensifying screens in panoramic radiography.
• Compare and contrast digital panoramic imaging to film-based panoramic radiography.
• Describe the concepts involved in panoramic image formation.
• Outline the procedures required for correct machine and patient preparation, patient positioning and panoramic unit operation.
• Discuss the procedures involved in film handling, cassette loading and film processing.
• Become familiar with anatomic structures that are recorded on panoramic images.
• Identify and propose corrective action for common panoramic imaging errors.
• Demonstrate ability to recognize and correct common errors via a self-assessment exercise.

Intraoral Radiography:  Principles, Techniques and Error Correction – Course 137

Upon the completion of this course, the student should be able to:

• List and describe the five shadow-casting principles
• Identify and describe proper intraoral radiographic techniques.
• Discuss patient management strategies to help avoid errors.
• Identify and correct radiographic technique errors.

Radiographic Techniques for the Pediatric Patient – Course 63

Upon the completion of this course, the student should be able to:

• Discuss with patients and parents radiation safety and the need for radiographs.
• Understand guidelines for radiographic exposure intervals for young patients for the reduction of ionizing radiation.
• Use innovative techniques for conducting radiographic examinations for the pediatric patient.

Osteoporosis: Prevention, Management, and Screening Using Dental Radiographs – Course 303

Upon the completion of this course, the student should be able to:

• Define and classify different types of osteoporosis and associated diseases.
• Identify lifestyle and genetic risk factors of patients with osteoporosis.
• Discuss strategies for prevention and management of osteoporosis through diet and exercise.
• Recognize the oral implications associated with osteoporosis.
• Assess diagnostic tools for screening patients with osteoporosis.
• Discuss medical intervention and treatment options for patients.

Students Rights and Responsibilities

Student Rights and Responsibilities

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If you are an active staff or faculty member according to Human Resources, use "Exchange". All other students, use "AC Connect (Google) Email".

Expected Student Behavior

Student Conduct and Responsibilities

A high standard of conduct is expected of all Amarillo College students.  The Student Code of Conduct is defined in the Amarillo College Student Rights and Responsibilities publication. This document may be located online at http://catalog.actx.edu/content.php?catoid=7&navoid=291#StudentConduct .

 

“Amarillo College expects a high standard of conduct from its students. Students are expected to comply with the law, respect proper constitutional authority, and 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 or 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 takes 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.”

 

The Amarillo College Dental Hygiene Program has specific policies which apply to student conduct within the program.  These policies may be implied or written.  The course syllabus and the student manual are sources for specific student conduct policies for dental hygiene students at Amarillo College.

 

Professional Standards

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 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. Students 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.

 

Cell Phone and Electronic Device Policy

Cell phones and other electronic devices may detract from the learning environment.  For this reason, they should be silenced and put away out of view before entering the classroom.  The personal use of cell phones in the classroom is not permitted.  Cell phones may be checked at designated break times.  Students who choose to violate the cell phone policy will receive a 0.

Additionally, cell phones and other electronic devices may be used to facilitate learning activities at the discretion of the course director.

 

Emergency Contacts

Phone numbers that family members may use to reach you only in case of emergencies are as follows:

354-6050 - Dental Hygiene Office Supervisor:         

467-4099 - Dental Clinic Supervisor                       

371-5163 - Amarillo College Police:                       

 

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 to the:  (1) Instructor (2) Department Chair/Program Director (3) Dean of Health Sciences (4) Vice President of Academic Affairs (5) College President.

Grading Criteria

Assignments and Examinations

The following criteria will be used to determine the student’s grade:

The course will consist of major examinations, Pretest/quizzes, online assignments, laboratory practical examinations and a comprehensive final examination.  Changes in the major examination schedule will be announced approximately one week in advance.  Quizzes may, or may not, be announced in advance.  Refer to the course calendar for the schedule of materials to be covered in each class or lab session and the tentative examination dates.  Also, please note the provisions of the Make-up Policy in this syllabus for missed examinations.  Major examinations and quizzes will be objective in nature (true/false and multiple choice) with a few questions being subjective in nature (short answer, essay, and fill in the blank).  The final examination will be entirely objective in nature and will test information for the entire course.

 

Students with questions regarding examination results may review examinations, under the supervision of the course faculty.  Students, who feel that a question was scored improperly, must submit the following to the course director, in writing:

1. Student name
2. Exam number
3. The examination question and the reason for requesting an instructor review of the score.
4. The page and paragraph number, in the student’s course textbook or lecture notes, that verify that the student’s answer is correct.

The request must be submitted to the course director within one week after the graded examination is returned to the student.

 

Students will not have access to review and study prior quizzes or major examinations in preparation for the final examination.  Students should not rely on memorization of specific test questions; instead, the student should have a general knowledge of the course objectives to be successful in learning the material in preparation for the comprehensive Final Exam in this course and for the Dental Hygiene National Board Examination.

 

Laboratory Assignments

The laboratory x-ray machines are used in the digital mode and the student will be required to capture images using sensor receptors and will learn to record the images in the proper format in the patient’s chart during each lab period..  Attire for radiology lab must follow the guidelines of lab or clinical attire discussed in the Amarillo College Dental Hygiene Student Handbook.  The following assignments must be completed in order to complete the course.  The criteria for quality assessment and the grading of lab radiographs will be based on the Criteria for Clinical Radiographs which includes the policies that will also be utilized in Clinic II, Clinic III, and Clinic IV.  The Criteria for Clinical Radiographs policy is included the Amarillo College Dental Hygiene Student Handbook.  The student is expected to utilize the Criteria for Clinical Radiographs as a guide to the assessment of the films taken in laboratory and clinical sessions.

 

Please note that the retake policy in the Criteria for Clinical Radiographs applies to clinic patient radiographs and will not be applied to Dexter Manikin Radiographic sets.  Students are allowed to utilize the Dexter Practice sessions to learn to expose, process, and assess errors, and may take unlimited retakes until the student is confident in their technique.  Retakes will be allowed on the Lab Practical Examination radiographic sets (clinic patient FMXs and BWXs) prior to grading only under the guidance of a clinical or laboratory faculty member.

 

Written Lab Examinations may be given through the semester to test the student’s knowledge in critiquing radiographs for errors, anatomical landmarks, and interpretation of the health status and pathological findings of the tissues as seen in radiographs.  These grades will be classified as Quiz grades.

 

The following Lab Assignments will be completed by the student in radiology lab sessions:

 

Bitewing and Full Mouth Radiographic Surveys:

6. Bitewing surveys – 5 horizontal surveys and 1 vertical survey on adult manikins.  (All six grades for the bitewing surveys will be averaged together and entered as one grade for the Dexter Bitewing Grade.) 

4. Full mouth radiographic surveys using the Paralleling Technique.  4 FMX sets with digital sensors, will be taught on manikins. (All four grades for the full mouth surveys will be averaged together and entered as one grade for the Dexter Full Mouth Survey Grade.)

 

Accessory Techniques:

Each accessory techniques will be taught to laboratory competency and will be graded as instructed on the competency form for each technique.

1. Set of radiographs using the Bisecting Angle Technique (Periapical radiographs will be taken using the Snap-A-Ray device.)

1. Occlusal Competency exercise will be completed as outlined on (maxillary and mandibular arches) on an adult Dexter manikin and on a Pedodontic manikin.

1. Localization Competency exercise.

2. Full mouth Surveys on a Pedodontic manikin. (1-Early Eruptive Stage and 1-Mixed Dentition)

 

Phosphor Plates, Scan X and the Nomad

The proper care and use of Phosphor Plates, the Scan-X, and the Nomad portable X-ray machine will be taught and each student must pass a written test on the Care and Use of the Phosphor Plates and the Scan X machine and another exam will be administered on the care and use of the Nomad machine.The examinations must be passed with a grade of 100.The student may review the material and retest until the grade on the examinations are score of 100.  After the written exam is passed on the phosphor plates/Scan X and the Nomad, the student will be required to complete a set of BWXs on a manikin using each type of equipment to competency level of achievement.

 

Lab Practical Examinations:  As a final examination for the Laboratory section of this course, students will expose radiographs on Clinic patients that are in need of radiographs for examination and/or dental hygiene treatment purposes.

1. Full mouth set of radiographs on a clinic patient

2. Sets of bitewings on clinic patients

3. Panoramic radiographs on clinic patients.

The Lab Practical Examinations will be exposed on a clinical patient and all radiographs must be prescribed by the dentist in the Clinic and must be approved at completion by a clinical or laboratory faculty member prior to the patient being dismissed from the clinic for that appointment. Retakes will be allowed on the lab practical radiograph sets; however, a clinical or laboratory faculty member must approve the retakes, be present when they are taken, and must sign off on which retakes were taken on the student’s grade form.  The student must follow the retake policy for clinical patient radiographs which is located in the Program Manual. Retakes will be allowed only for attaining diagnostic quality radiographs and not on the sole purpose of achieving perfection for a grade.

 

Guidelines for Lab Practical Examination:

It is the student’s responsibility to:

1. Determine that the patient needs to have the FMX or Panoramic radiographs taken and get approval for the radiographs from the Instructor or Dentist in the clinical session..
2. Infection control procedures must be followed closely to prevent cross-contamination in the x-ray procedure room or at the clinical unit and in the dispensary.
3. At the completion of the appointment all procedures, including the radiographic survey, must be charted on the dental chart ledger for accurate charges to be assessed.
4. The progress notes will be written clearly and precisely and will include the number of radiographs taken and the radiographic survey completed.
5. Prior to turning in the set of radiographs for grading, a critique sheet must be completed accurately.
6. The dentist in the clinic session will review the radiographic survey as they complete the dental examination on the patient.

 

Laboratory Grades – Grades that will be included in the laboratory portion of the course average – Total of 10 grades 

• Dexter BWX (average of 6 grades)
• Dexter FMX (average of 4 grades) (paralleling technique)
• Accessory technique (average of 5 grades)
• Phosphor plates/Scan X BWXs (average of 2 grades)
• 1 FMX grade on clinic patient
• 2 BWX grades on clinic patients
• 3 Panoramic grades on clinic patients

 

Grading Criteria

The final course grade will be computed as follows:

40%   Major Exams                                                          

15%   Pretests, Quizzes and Online Assignments               

25%   Comprehensive Final                                                

20%   Lab Assignments                                                     

 

The following grade scale applies throughout this course:

A = 93 ‑ 100%            

B = 83 ‑ 92%

C = 75 ‑ 82%

F = below 75%

Note:  A grade of "D" is not possible in this course.

In order to pass the course, a student must achieve a final grade of 75% and meet all requirements of the course.  All students are considered mature enough to seek faculty assistance and to monitor their own progress in meeting course requirements.  Students who continually fall below the minimal level of 75% on graded material should seek assistance from the course faculty. 

 

Participation and Instructor Assistance

Learning activities in this course are designed to enhance the understanding of dental radiology/radiography; and secondarily, the theory of human anatomy and physiology as it relates to the specifics of the head and neck and orofacial complex as they can be imaged through radiographs. To assist management of this varied subject matter small group discussions and various other classroom activities may be utilized.  Assigned readings in the text should be dome in advance to enhance understanding of the information and assist you in relating this information to the course activities and discussions.  It is anticipated that each student will ask questions for clarification as needed and contribute ideas and knowledge to class discussion.  All students are considered mature enough to seek help and assistance from the faculty and to monitor their own progress in meeting course requirements.  If students have questions concerning assignments, content, etc., or if a problem arises that warrants instructor help, please do not hesitate to call or come by my office to schedule an appointment.

 

Make‑up Policy

A student will not be allowed to make-up quizzes, as a zero will be given for each missed quiz.  If a student is absent on the day when a major examination is given, the student may make‑up the missed work as follows:

1. It is the responsibility of the student to make arrangements with the instructor within 24 hours of returning from the absence to reschedule the examination.
2. The missed work must be made up within TWO Amarillo College school days where the day ends at 4:00 p.m.
3. The makeup work may earn a maximum of 80% of the original point value.    

Attendance

Attendance Policy

“Regular attendance is necessary for satisfactory achievement. Therefore, it is the responsibility of the student to attend class in accordance with the requirements of the course as established by the instructor.”  (Amarillo College Student’s Rights and Responsibilities Publication)

 

Due to the tremendous amount of information contained in this course, the student who plans to succeed should also plan to attend all course sessions regularly and promptly.  Without question, the instructor expects each student to be present at each session.  Unfortunately, no one has ever developed a short cut which will replace hours of actual experience needed to master a new skill; therefore, students must be present to acquire the specific knowledge in this subject. 

 

Absences will be monitored and evaluated to determine the student’s final course grade.  The student may have no more than 1 absence in this course without affecting the final grade.  Beginning with the 2^nd absence, 2 points will be deducted from the final grade; on the 3^rd absence, 3 points will be deducted; on the 4^th absence, 4 points will be deducted.  On the occurrence of the 5^th absence, the student will fail the course and be required to repeat the course.  Attendance will be taken at the beginning of each lecture and lab session.  Students not present when attendance is taken will be counted as absent. The student is expected to be present in class at the time class/lab is scheduled to begin. STUDENTS, WHO ARE LATE TO CLASS OR LAB OR WHO LEAVE CLASS OR LAB EARLY, WILL BE COUNTED AS ABSENT.  The student will receive 2 bonus points to the final grade of this course if the student has perfect attendance for the semester.   

Calendar

Additional Information

Additional Information

Social Services Available

http://www.actx.edu/resources/  This website was created to assist Amarillo employees and students.  Many times, students come to us with individual concerns/situations that need to be addressed in order for the student to be successful in school.

This website can be used to find those needed resources for our students and their families.  Feel free to copy any of this information for a student and to refer students as needed.

Our goal is to provide as much information as possible for employees and students to be able to access campus and community resources when needed.  There are many more resources in this community that are not listed on these pages.  Some of these agencies and programs will change; so if you call and cannot get assistance or cannot access a broken link, please contact me for more updated information.

This website will be updated as often as possible; therefore most will be current.  If the resources listed do not serve the needs you have or if you have any questions concerning this website, please call or email:  Jordan Herrera, LMSW, Coordinator of Social Services, 806-371-5439, http://jordan@actx.edu.