When studying dental radiography, students learn how to manipulate the three component parts of an intraoral dental X-ray machine--the tubehead, extension arm and control panel, according to the book "Dental Radiography: Principles and Techniques" used in 2009 training programs. Classes also cover how to use a film holder, which holds and aligns an X-ray film in a patient's mouth. In addition, students learn the various parts of an X-ray film and the types of intraoral film--periapical, bite-wing and occlusal--used to examine different parts of a tooth or the jaw.
Radiation safety is a critical part of dental radiography training. Students learn that only the dentist can prescribe radiographs. They also study the importance of a collimator, or a lead plate with a hole in the middle, in restricting the size and shape of an X-ray beam as it leaves the X-ray tubehead to help reduce patient exposure to radiation. In addition, training programs cover the value of a thyroid collar and lead apron in protecting a patient's thyroid gland, reproductive organs and blood-forming tissues from scatter radiation. For protecting themselves when taking dental radiographs, students learn to stand at least 6 feet from the X-ray tubehead during exposure.
Students in a dental radiography training program learn how to take radiographs using two separate methods called the paralleling technique and the bisecting technique. They also learn to take X-rays of the front teeth first before moving to the premolars and molars located farther back in the mouth. In addition, aspiring dental radiographers learn how to perform the bite-wing X-ray technique, which helps dentists examine the spaces between teeth to detect cavities. Dental radiography training programs cover common film placement errors and how to correct these problems as well.
Mounting radiographs is an important part of dental radiography training programs. Students learn that mounted films are easier and quicker to view and interpret. They study how to arrange dental radiographs in anatomic order, which refers to how the teeth are arranged in dental arches. Students additionally learn how to pinpoint normal anatomic landmarks, dental restorations/materials and oral problems such as lesions.
Dental radiography training programs additionally teach students about extraoral film placed outside the mouth during X-ray exposure. These films include panoramic film used to show the upper and lower jaws as well as cephalometric film, which show the soft tissues and bones of the face. Courses also cover how to use duplicating film to make an identical copy of radiographs. Students additionally learn that digital radiography requires less radiation than conventional radiography, how digital radiography works and the equipment needed to take digital radiographs.