Key Terms Flashcards
Key Terms for Entire RHS Exam
triangle (geometry term)
- in geometry, a figure formed by connecting three points not in a straight line by three straight-line segments
- has three angles
lead apron
a flexible lead shield used to protect the patient’s reproductive and blood-forming tissues from scatter radiation
millampere (mA)
a unit of measurement used to describe the intensity of an electrical current
vertical angulation
the positioning of the position-indicating device in a vertical plane
superior
describes an area that is higher on a vertical axis
lateral jaw projection- ramus of the mandible
an extraoral projection used to image the ramus of the mandible in order to evaluate impacted third molars, large lesions, and fractures that extend into the ramus of the mandible
occupational exposure
contact with blood or other infectious materials involving the skin, eye, or mucous membranes that results from procedures performed by the dental professional
storage phosphor imaging
an indirect method of obtaining a digital image in which the image is recorded on phosphor-coated plates and then placed into an electronic processor, where a laser scans the plate and produces an image on a computer screen
enamel
- the outermost layer of the crown of the tooth (appears radiopaque)
- the densest structure in the human body
pathogen
a microorganism capable causing disease
periapical cyst / radicular cyst
a lesion characterized by an epithelial-lined cavity or sac located around the apex of a nonvital tooth that results from pulpal death (appears radiolucent)
intraoral receptor
an image receptor is placed inside the mouth during x-ray exposure to examine teeth and supporting structures
dentino-enamel junction (DEJ)
the junction between the dentin and enamel of a tooth
maxillary torus / torus palatinus
a nodular mass of bone along the midline of the hard palate
self-determination
the legal rights of an individual to make choices about the care they receive, including the opportunity to consent to or refuse treatment
bit-depth image
the number of possible gray-scale combinations for each pixel
nondeciduous teeth
permanent teeth that do not replace a primary/deciduous tooth (permanent first, second, and third molars)
tubercle (anatomic term)
a rounded prominence of bone (appears radiopaque)
extraoral
outside the mouth
process (anatomic term)
a marked prominence or projection of bone (appears radiopaque)
mount
to place in an appropriate setting for display or study
radiation
a form of energy carried by waves or streams of particles
orbit (anatomic term)
the bony cavity that contains the eyeball
sigmoid notch / mandibular notch (anatomic term)
a curved depression located between the mandibular condyle and the coronoid process of the mandible
panoramic
a wide view
exposure light
a component of the dental x-ray machine control panel that provides a visible signal when x-rays are produced
object-receptor distance
- the distance from the object being imaged *(tooth)) to the image receptor influences image magnification
- less image magnification results when the tooth and the image receptor are as close as possible, and more magnification results when the tooth and receptor are far apart
hamulus / hamular process (anatomic term)
a small, hooklike projection of bone that extends form the medial pterygoid plate of the sphenoid bone (appears radiopaque)
leakage radiation
any radiation, with the exception of the primary beam, that is emitted from the dental x-ray tubehead
posteroanterior projection
an extraoral projection of the skull used to evaluate facial growth, trauma, diseases, and developmental abnormalities
pulpal sclerosis
a diffuse calcification of the pulp chamber and pulp canals of teeth that results in a pulp cavity of decreased size (appears radiopaque)
gray (Gy)
a unit for measuring absorbed dose
internal oblique ridge (anatomic term)
a linear prominence of bone located on the internal surface of the mandible that extends downward and forward from the ramus (appears radiopaque)
milliamperage
in dental imaging, the quantity (number) of x-ray emitted from the tubehead
nasopharyngeal air space (anatomic term)
refers to the airspace portion of the pharynx located posterior to the nasal cavity (on a panoramic image, appears as a diagonal radiolucency located superior to the radiopaque shadow of the soft palate and uvula)
underexposed image
an exposure error that results in a light image due to inadequate exposure time, kilovoltage or milliamperage, or a combination of these factors
ionizing radiation
radiation that is capable of producing ions by removing or adding an electron to an atom
mandibular torus / torus mandibularis
a bony growth seen along the lingual aspect of the mandible
proton
a positively-charged particle with a mass of one
filament circuit
- regulates the flow of the electrical current to the filament of the x-ray tube using 3-5 volts
- controlled by the milliamperage settings
cancellous bone / trabecular bone
the soft, spongy bone located between the two layers of dense cortical bone (appears radiolucent)
panoramic image
an image that shows the wide view of the maxilla and the mandible surrounding structures
maxillary teeth
teeth located in the maxilla or upper arch
metallic restoration
- restorations that completely absorb x-rays; as a result, little to no radiation contacts the receptor (appears radiopaque)
- (ex: amalgam, gold)
cell metabolism
the physical and chemical processes of a cell that determine the response of the cell to radiation exposure
collimation
the restriction of the size and shape of the x-ray beam in order to reduce patient exposure
total dose
the quantity of radiation received, or the total amount of radiation energy absorbed
edentulous zone
an area where teeth are no longer present
short-scale contrast
- a term describing an image with predominately areas of black and white
- results from the used of a lower kilovoltage range
filament circuit / low-voltage circuit
- the circuit that regulates the flow of electrical current to the filament of the x-ray tube
- controlled by the milliamperage settings
Waters projection
an extraoral projection used to evaluate the maxillary sinus area
kinetic energy
the energy of motion
external root resorption
a regressive alteration of root structure that occurs along the periphery of the root surface
dentition
the character of a set of teeth, including their number, kind, and location/arrangement
leaded-glass housing
a portion of the glass housing of the x-ray tube that includes lead that prevents x-rays from escaping in all directions
electricity
- the energy used to make x-rays
- used as a source of power
angle (geometry term)
in geometry, a figure formed by two lines diverging from a common point
exposure incident
a specific incident involving contact with blood or other potentially infectious materials that results from procedures performed by the dental professional
internal root resorption
the destruction of dentin around the pulp cavity within the crown or root of a tooth (appears radiolucent)
furcation area
the area between the roots of multi-rooted teeth
sharpness
- refers to the capability of the image receptor to reproduce the distinct outlines of an object
- influenced by focal spot size and movement
ionization
- the production of ions
- the process of converting an atom into an ion, resulting in the formation of a positive atom and a dislodged negative ion
avulsion
the complete displacement of a tooth from alveolar bone
x-radiation
a high-energy radiation produced by the collision of a beam of electrons with a metal target in the x-ray tube
cortical bone / compact bone
the dense outer layer of bone (appears radiopaque)
nucleon
part of an atomic nucleus (ex: protons, neutrons)
submandibular fossa / mandibular fossa (anatomic term)
a depressed area of bone located on the internal surface of the mandible inferior to the mylohyoid ridge (appears radiolucent)
lateral cephalometric projection
an extraoral image that is used to determine facial growth and development, trauma, disease, and developmental abnormalities
rule of isometry (geometry term)
a geometric principal that states that “two triangles are equal if they have two equal angles and share a common side”
direct current (DC)
a current in which electrons flow in one direction
dose rate
the rate at which exposure to radiation occurs and the absorption takes place (determined by dose/time)
alveolar bone loss
a loss of bone that surrounds and supports teeth in the maxilla and mandible
inverse square law
- a rule that states that “the intensity of radiation is inversely proportional to the square of the distance from the source of radiation”
- as distance is increased, the radiation intensity at the object is decreased, and vice versa
atom
- a tiny, invisible particle that is the fundamental unit of matter
- the smallest part of an element that has the properties of that element
condensing osteitis / chronic focal sclerosing osteomyelitis
a well-defined radiopacity seen below the apex of a nonvital tooth that has a history of long-standing pulpitis (appears radiopaque)
horizontal bone loss
bone loss that occurs in a plane parallel to the cemento-enamel junction of adjacent teeth
incipient
small, or beginning to exist or appear
inherent filtration
portions of the x-ray tubehead that serve to filter low-energy x-rays, including the glass window of the x-ray tube, the insulating oil, and the tubehead seal
imaginary bisector
- an imaginary plane that divides in half the angle formed by the image receptor and the long axis of the tooth
- creates two equal angles and provides a common side for the two imaginary equal triangles
anterior teeth
central incisors, lateral incisors, and canines/cuspids
free radical
an uncharged, neutral atom or molecule that exists with a single, unpaired electron in its outermost shell
contact areas
the areas where adjacent tooth surfaces touch each other
beam alignment device
- a device used to align the position-indicating device in relation to tooth and image receptor
- positions the intraoral image receptor in the mouth and retains the image receptor in position during exposure
- helps stabilize the image receptor in the mouth and reduces the chances of movement, thus reducing the patient’s exposure to x-radiation
endodontic patient
a patient who has undergone endodontic therapy
somatic effects
radiation injuries that produce changes in somatic cells and produce poor health in the irradiated individual (ex: the induction of cancer, leukemia, or cataracts)
interpersonal skills
skills the promote good relationships between individuals
genetic cells
- cells that contain genes
- reproductive cells (ex: ova, sperm)
mandibular topographic occlusal projection
a type of occlusal projection used to examine the anterior teeth of the mandible
vertical bone loss / angular bone loss
bone loss that does not occur in a plane parallel to the cemento-enamel junctions of adjacent teeth
angulation
the alignment of the central x-ray beam in the horizontal and vertical planes
mandibular teeth
teeth located in the mandible or lower arch
facial / labial
the tooth surface towards the cheek/lips on anterior teeth
bite-wing tab / bite loop / bite tab
a heavy paperboard tab or loop fitted around an intraoral image receptor during exposure
high contrast
a term describing an image with many very dark areas and very light areas and few shades of gray
sterilize
the use of a physical or chemical procedure to destroy all pathogens, including highly resistant bacterial and fungal spores
anode
- the positive electrode in the x-ray tube
- consists of a wafer-thin tungsten plate embedded in a solid copper rod
- converts electrons into x-ray photons
quality factor (QF)
a factor used for radiation protection purposes that account for the exposure effects of different types of radiation
intraoral imaging examination
a dental imaging inspection of teeth and intraoral adjacent structures
inter-radicular
between the roots of adjacent teeth
electron
a tiny, negatively charged particle found outside the nucleus in the atom
dental radiographer
any person who positions, exposes, and processes dental x-ray image receptors
interproximal examination
an intraoral inspection used to examine the crowns of both maxillary and mandibular teeth on a single image
long axis of a tooth
an imaginary line that divides a tooth longitudinally into two equal halves
rampant caries
caries that affect numerous teeth in the dentition (appears radiolucent)
pulp stones
calcifications found in the pulp chamber or pulp canals of teeth (appear radiopaque)
recurrent caries / secondary caries
caries located adjacent to a pre-existing restoration (appears radiolucent)
gutta percha
rubberlike material used in endodontic therapy to fill the pulp canals and pulp chamber (appears radiopaque)
molecule
- two or more atoms joined together by chemical bonds
- the smallest amount of a substance that possesses its characteristic properties
ALARA concept
a concept of radiation protection that states that all exposure to radiation must be kept to a minimum, or “as low as reasonably achievable”
matter
anything that occupies space and has mass
caries
tooth decay caused by microorganisms (appears radiolucent)
radioactivity
the process by which certain unstable atoms or elements undergo spontaneous disintegration, or decay, in an effort to attain a more balanced nuclear state
panoramic imaging
an extraoral technique used to examine the upper and lower jaws on a single image
general radiation / bremsstrahlung radiation / braking radiation
a form of radiation that occurs when speeding electrons slow down because of their interaction with the tungsten target in the anode
exposure sequence
a defined order to place and expose intraoral receptors
intrusion
the abnormal displacement of teeth into bone
disability
a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more of an individual’s major life activities
cone-cut
a clear, unexposed area on a dental image that occurs when the position-indicating device is misaligned and the x-ray beam is not centered over the image receptor
ramus (anatomic term)
vertical portion of the mandible that is found posterior to the third molar
distortion
- a geometric characteristic that refers to a variation in the true size and shape of the object being imaged
- influenced by object-receptor alignment and the vertical angulation of the x-ray beam
cumulative effects
the additive effects of repeated radiation exposure
ground glass appearance / orange-peel appearance
a term used to describe a radiopacity viewed on a dental image that resembles pulverized glass
tooth-bearing areas
regions of the maxilla and mandible in which the 32 teeth of the human dentition are normally located
sagittal plane
- a vertical plane that divides the body into right and left sides (the sides do not need to be equally divided)
- runs perpendicular to the ground
voltage
in dental imaging, the measurement of force that refers to the potential difference between two electrical charges
sterilization
the act of sterilizing
primary radiation / primary beam / useful beam
the penetrating x-ray beam produced at the target of the anode and exits the tubehead
malpractice
improper or negligent conduct or treatment
filtration
the use of absorbing materials (ex: aluminum) for removing low energy x-rays from the primary beam
occlusal incipient caries
- caries located on the occlusal surface of posterior teeth
- cannot be seen on a radiograph
maxillary tuberosity (anatomic term)
a rounded prominence of bone that extends posterior to the third molar region (appears radiopaque)
psychogenic stimuli
stimuli originating from the mind
three-dimensional volume rendering
a three-dimensional shape that is created from two-dimensional images
radiograph
an image or picture produced on a receptor by exposure to ionizing radiation
pulp canal obliteration
the calcification, or deposition, of hard tissue within the pulp cavity, causing no visible pulp chamber or canals on the dental image
unilocular coriticated
describes a radiolucency on a dental image that exhibits one compartment with a well-defined outer border
pixel / picture element
in digital electronic images, digital information is contained in, and presented as, discrete units of information
Compton electron
- an outer-shell electron that is ejected from its orbit during Compton scatter
- carries a negative charge
anatomic order
the order in which teeth are arranged within the dental arches
high-level disinfectant
- chemicals classified by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as “sterilants-disinfectants”
- used to disinfect heat-sensitive, semicritical dental instruments
impulse
in dental imaging, a measure of exposure time
soft palate (anatomic term)
the fleshy, movable posterior portion of the roof of the mouth separating the mouth and the phaynx
occlusal caries
caries located on the chewing surfaces of posterior teeth (appears radiolucent)
kilovolt (kV)
the unit of measurement for voltage
Compton scatter
one of the interactions of x-radiation with matter in which the x-ray photon collides with a loosely bound, outer-shell electron and gives up part of its energy to eject the electron from its orbit, causing the x-ray photon to lose its energy and continue in a different direction a lower energy level
neutral atom
an atom that contains an equal number of protons and electrons
statute of limitations
a period during which a patient may bring a malpractice action against a dentist or an auxillary
midsagittal plane
an imaginary line or plane passing through the center of the body that divides it into right and left halves
field of view (FOV)
- the area that can be captured when performing imaging procedures
- with cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) imaging, the region of interest of the patient anatomy
trauma
injury produced by an external force
x-rays
a beam of energy that has the power to penetrate substances and record image shadows on image receptors
apex
the area of a tooth that allows for blood vessels and nerves to enter the tooth and maintain the vitality of the tooth
image receptor placement
the specific area where the image receptor must be positioned before exposure
spine (anatomic term)
a sharp, thornlike projection of bone (appears radiopaque)
velocity
in dental imaging, the speed of a wave
focal spot size
the size of the tungsten target of the anode
real image
in panoramic imaging, the image that is recorded when a structure is located between the receptor and the moving rotation center
ion pair
one positive and one negative ion, that results when an electron is removed an atom in the ionization process, causing the atom to become the positive ion and the ejected electron becomes the negative ion
periodontal abscess
a lesion that originates in a soft tissue pocket and is characterized by the accumulation of pus and destruction of bone (appears radiolucent)
open contacts
on a dental image, appears as a thin radiolucent line between adjacent tooth surfaces
endodontics
the branch of dentistry that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the dental pulp
exposure
a measure of ionization produced in air by x-radiation or gamma radiation
mylohyoid ridge (anatomic term)
a linear prominence of bone located on the internal surface of the mandible that extends from the molar region downward and forward to the lower border of the mandible (appears radiopaque)
bisect
to divide into two equal parts
anterior nasal spine (anatomic term)
a sharp projection of the maxilla located at the anteroinferior portion of the nasal cavity (appears radiopaque)
lingula (anatomic term)
a small, tongue-shaped projection of bone seen adjacent to the mandibular foramen (appears radiopaque)
negative vertical angulation
the positioning of the position-indicating device below the occlusal plane that directs the central ray upward
mandible
the lower jaw
cervical burnout
a radiolucent artifact seen on dental images between the cemento-enamel junction and the alveolar bone
occlusal examination
a type of intraoral examination used to inspect large areas of the maxilla or mandible in one image
infraorbital foramen (anatomic term)
a hole or opening in bone found inferior to the border of the orbit (on a panoramic image, appears radiolucent)
somatic cells
all cells in the body, with the exception of reproductive cells
particulate radiation
tiny particles of matter that possess mass and travel in straight lines and at high speeds (ex: electrons, beta particles, alpha particles, protons, and neutrons)
rectification
the conversion of alternating current to direct current
overlapped contacts
on a dental image, the area where the contact area of one tooth is superimposed over the contact areas of an adjacent tooth
photon
a bundle of energy with no mass or weight that travels as a wave at the speed of light and moves through space in a straight line
antiseptic
a substance that inhibits the growth of bacteria
tungsten target
a portion of the anode in the x-ray tube that serves as a focal spot and converts bombarding electrons into x-ray photons
nucleus
the central, positively charged core of an atom, composed of protons and neutrons
primary teeth / deciduous teeth
baby teeth
multiplanar reconstruction (MPR)
the reconstruction of raw data into images when imported into viewing software to create three anatomic planes of the body
critical organ
an organ that, if damaged, diminishes the quality of an individual’s life
ion
- an electrically unbalanced particle
*an atom that gains or loses an electron
interproximal caries
caries located between two adjacent teeth (appears radiolucent)
angle of the mandible (anatomic term)
- the area of the mandible where the body meets the ramus
- the corner portion formed by the junction of the posterior and lower borders on the ramus
inverted Y
a landmark viewed on dental images above the maxillary canine that represents the intersection of the anterior border of the maxillary sinus and the lateral wall of the nasal fossa (appears radiopaque)
respiratory hygiene / cough etiquette
an infection prevention measure designed to limit the transmissions of disease spread by respiratory pathogens via droplet or airborne routes
maxillary pediatric occlusal projection
a type of occlusal projection used to examine the anterior teeth of the maxilla used in children 5 years or younger
personal protective equipment (PPE)
equipment worn by dental professionals to protect themselves from hazards, including protective attire, gloves, masks, and eyewear
radioresistant cell
a cell that is resistant to radiation (ex: bone, muscle, and nerve cells)
lingual foramen (anatomic term)
a small opening or hole in bone surrounded by the genial tubercles and located at the midline of the internal surface of the mandible (appears radiolucent)
positive vertical angulation
the positioning of the position-indicating device above the occlusal plane that directs the central ray downward
dose-response curve
a curve that can be used to correlate the damage of tissues with the amount of radiation received
radiation absorbed dose (rad)
a unit for measuring absorbed dose
generalized bone loss
bone loss that occurs evenly throughout the dental arches
radiopacity / radiodensity
an area on a dental image appearing radiopaque (light/white) due to resisting the passage of the x-ray beam and limiting the amount of x-rays that reach the image receptor
x-ray beam angulation
one of the influencing factors for image distortion that refers to the direction of the x-ray beam
bite-wing image
intraoral image that is used to examine the interproximal surfaces of teeth
quality of the x-ray beam
- the mean energy or penetrating ability of the x-ray beam
- controlled by the kilovoltage
neutron
an electrically neutral or uncharged particle
lamina dura (anatomic term)
the wall of the tooth socket that surrounds the root of a tooth (appears radiopaque)
palate (anatomic term)
the roof of the mouth
dentin
the tooth layer found between the enamel and surrounding the pulp cavity (appears radiopaque)
periapical examination
a type of intraoral imaging examination used to view the entire tooth (crown and root) and supporting bone
dental radiograph
a photographic image produced on a receptor by the passage of x-rays through teeth and related structures
intersecting
cutting across or through
mandibular notch (anatomic term)
a scooped-out concavity of bone located distal to the coronoid process on the ramus of the mandible
inferior nasal conchae (anatomic term)
wafer-thin, curved plates of bone that extend from the lateral walls of the nasal cavity (appears radiopaque)
tongue (anatomic term)
a movable muscular organ attached to the floor of the mouth
diatorics
metal retention pins that are included in anterior porcelain denture teeth
radiography
the art and science of making radiographs by the exposure of receptors to x-rays
indirect digital imaging
a method of obtaining a digital imaging from a sensor after exposure to x-rays by using a scanner to convert information into a digital form so that it can be viewed on a computer monitor
quality administration
the management of the quality assurance plan in the dental office
occlusal
the chewing surfaces of posterior teeth
interproximal
between two adjacent surfaces
sinus (anatomic term)
a hollow space, cavity, or recess in bone (appears radiolucent)
nonstochastic effects of radiation
effects of radiation that have a threshold and increase in severity with increasing absorbed dose
articular eminence (anatomic term)
a rounded projection of the temporal bone located anterior to the glenoid fossa (appears radiopaque)
ridge (anatomic term)
a linear prominence of bone (appears radiopaque)
luxation
the abnormal displacement of teeth
distal
the tooth surface away from the midline of the mouth
movement
motion of the image receptor or patient during image exposure that results in an image with decreased sharpness
low-level disinfectant
- chemical germicides classified by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as “hospital disinfectants”
- recommended for general housekeeping purposes
isometry (geometry term)
equality of measurement
hard palate (anatomic term)
the bony plate that separates the nasal cavity from the oral cavity in the anterior portion of the roof of the mouth (appears radiopaque)
central ray (CR)
the central portion of the primary beam of x-radiation
diagnostic image
a dental image that allows for the identifying and monitoring of diseases or injuries
digitize
in digital imaging, to convert an image into digital form that, in turn, can be processed by a computer
added filtration
aluminum disks inserted in the dental x-ray machine between the x-ray tubehead seal and collimator to remove low-energy x-rays from the primary beam
vertical
an up-and-down plane
apical
towards the apex of a tooth
periapical abscess
a lesion characterized by a localized collection of pus around the apex of a nonvital tooth that results from pulpal death (appears radiolucent)
asepsis
the absence of pathogens or disease-causing microorganisms
infection prevention
procedures used to prevent the transmission of infectious diseases
electrical current
the flow of electrons through a conductor to produce x-rays
cone beam computed tomography (CBCT)
computer-assisted digital imaging in dentistry that uses a cone-shaped x-ray beam to acquire information and present it in three dimensions
panoramic receptor
an image receptor used in panoramic examinations that show a wide view of the maxilla and mandible
opposing
maxillary and mandibular teeth that occlude together
dental image
a two-dimensional representation of a three-dimensional object produced by the passage of x-rays through teeth and supporting structures
dose equivilent
a measurement used to compare the biologic effects of different types of radiation
scatter radiation
a form of secondary radiation that results from an x-ray beam that has been deflected from its path by the interaction with matter
cementum
calcified connective tissue that covers the outer root surface of the tooth
kilovoltage
in dental imaging, the x-ray tube peak voltage used during an exposure
forshortened image
an image of a tooth that appears short and distorted
disinfect
to inhibit or destroy disease-causing microorganisms through the use of a chemical or physical procedure
nutrient canal (anatomic term)
a tiny tubelike passageway through bone which contains blood vessels and nerves that supply teeth and interdental areas (appears radiolucent)
informed consent
consent given by a patient after complete disclosure about the particulars of a procedure
direct digital imaging
a method of obtaining a digital image in which an intraoral sensor is exposed to x-radiation to capture an image that can be viewed on a computer monitor
occlusal severe caries
caries located on the occlusal surfaces of posterior teeth that extends into dentin (appears as a large radiolucency)
soft tissue opacity
a term used to describe a well-defined radiopacity viewed on a dental image that is located in soft tissue
absorption
- the total transfer of energy from the x-ray photon to the atoms of matter through which the x-ray beam passes
- depends on the energy of the x-ray beam and the composition of the absorbing matter or tissues
septum (plural: septa) (anatomic term)
bont wall or partition that divides a cavity into separate areas (appears radiopaque)
body of the mandible (anatomic term)
the U-shaped horizontal portion of the mandible that extends from ramus to ramus
elongation
- a term used in imaging to describe an image of a tooth that appears longer than the actual tooth
- results from flat or insufficient vertical angulation
dose
the amount of energy absorbed by a tissue
tungsten filament
a coiled wire of tungsten in the cathode in the x-ray tube that produces electrons when heated
incisal
the chewing edge of anterior teeth
radiopaque
the portion of an image that is light or white, due to the structure resisting the passage of the x-ray beam and limiting the amount of x-rays that reach the receptor
localized bone loss
bone loss that occurs in isolated areas
head positioner
- one of the component parts of a panoramic unit that is used to position and stabilize the patient’s head
- includes a chin rest, notched bite-block, forehead rest, and lateral head supports
exposure time
the interval during which x-rays are produced
right-angle technique
a localization technique in which the orientation of structures can be seen in two images (one periapical and one occlusal)
zygoma / zygomatic bone / malar bone (anatomic term)
the cheekbone (appears as a diffuse radiopaque band posterior to the zygomatic process of the maxilla)
standard precautions
measures that include a standard of care designed to protect health care personnel and patients from pathogens that can be spread by blood or any other bodily fluid, excretion, or secretion
subject contrast
the characteristics of the subject (patient) that influence contrast, including the size and thickness of the patient
direct theory of radiation
a theory that suggests that cell damage results when ionizing radiation hits critical areas directly within the cell
pterygomaxillary fissure (anatomic term)
a narrow space or cleft that separates the lateral pterygoid plate and the maxilla (on a panoramic image, appears radiolucent)
extraoral receptor
an image receptor is placed outside the mouth to examine large areas of the skull or jaws
supernumerary teeth / hyperdontia
extra teeth that develop in addition to the normal human dentition
multilocular
a term used to describe a radiolucent lesion on a dental image that exhibits multiple compartments
facilitation skills
interpersonal skills used to ease communication and to develop a trusting relationship between the dental professional and the patient
torus (plural: tori)
a bony growth in the oral cavity
external oblique ridge / external oblique line (anatomic term)
a linear prominence of bone located on the external surface of the body of the mandible (appears radiopaque)
indirect theory of radiation
a theory suggesting that cell damage results indirectly, where x-ray photons are absorbed with the cell, causing the formation of toxins, which in turn, damage the cell
buccal
the tooth surface towards the cheek on posterior teeth
hypotenuse (geometry term)
in geometry, the side of a right triangle opposite the right angle
periodontal ligament space (PDL)
- a space that exists between the root of a tooth and the lamina dura (appears radiolucent)
- contains connective tissue fibers, blood vessels, and lymphatics
image
a picture or likeness of an object
pulp cavity
a cavity within a tooth that includes both the pulp chamber and the pulp canals, containing blood vessels, nerves, and lymphatics (appears radiolucent)
low contrast
a term describing an image with many shades of gray and few areas of black and white
right angle (geometry term)
in geometry, an angle of 90 degrees formed by two lines perpendicular to each other
alternating current (AC)
a current in which electrons flow in opposite directions
diagnosis
identification of a disease by examination or analysis
cervical / gingival
the tooth surface towards the gumline/cervical third area
uvula (anatomic term)
a small, fleshy extension located on the free edge of the soft palate at the midline
palatoglossal air space (anatomic term)
refers to the space found between the palate and the tongue (on a panoramic image, appears as a horizontal radiolucent band located superior to the apices of maxillary teeth)
total filtration
the combination of the inherent filtration and added filtration in an x-ray machine
frequency
- the number of wavelengths that pass a given point in a certain amount of time
- indicates the energy of a radiation
glenoid fossa (anatomic term)
a concave, depressed area of the temporal bone where the mandibular condyle rests
control devices
- the components of the control panel of the x-ray machine that regulate the x-ray beam
- includes the timer, kilovoltage and milliamperage selectors
overexposed image
an exposure error that results in a dark image from excessive exposure time, kilovoltage, or milliamperage, or a combination of these factors
patient relations
the relationship between the patient and the dental professional
standard of care
in dentistry, the quality of care that is provided by dental practitioners in a similar locality under the same or similar conditions
incisive foramen (anatomic term)
an opening or hole in bone located at the midline of the anterior hard palate directly posterior to the maxillary central incisors (appears radiolucent)
charge-coupled device (CCD)
a solid-state silicon chip detector found in an intraoral digital sensor that converts light or x-ray photons into an electrical charge or signal
extraoral image
- an image that results when an image receptor is placed outside the mouth and is exposed to x-rays
- used to examine large areas of the skull or jaws
foramen (anatomic term)
an opening or hole in bone that permits the passage of nerves and blood vessels (appears radiolucent)
critical instrument
instruments that are used to penetrate soft tissue or bone and must be sterilized after each use
hyoid bone (anatomic term)
a horseshoe-shaped bone that lies below the mandible, between the chin and thyroid cartilage (appears radiopaque on a panoramic image)
digital image
an image composed of pixels
periodontium
specialized tissues that surround and support teeth, such as the gingiva, cementum, periodontal ligament, and alveolar bone
circuit
a path of electrical current
contrast
- how sharply dark and light areas are differentiated or separated on an image
- the difference in the degrees of blackness (densities) between adjacent areas on a dental image
stochastic effects of radiation
- biologic effects from radiation that occur as a direct function of dose
- the probability of occurrence increases with increasing absorbed dose; however, the severity of effects does not depend on the magnitude of the absorbed dose
periapical lesion
a lesion located around the apex of a tooth
coronal plane
- a vertical plane that divides the body into anterior and posterior sides
- runs perpendicular to the ground
scale of contrast
the range of useful densities on a dental images
intensity
- the total energy of the x-ray beam
- the product of the quantity (number of x-ray photons) and quality (energy of each photon) per unit of area per time of exposure
nonvital
not living
right triangle (geometry term)
in geometry, a triangle with one 90-degree angle
cavitation / cavity
a hole in a tooth that results from the caries process (appears radiolucent)
periapical
around the apex of a tooth
superior foramina of the incisive canal (anatomic term)
two tiny openings or holes in bone that are located on the floor of the nasal cavity (appear radiolucent)
tubehead seal
the aluminum or leaded-glass covering of the tubehead that seals the oil in the tubehead and filters the x-ray beam
polychromatic x-ray beam
an x-ray beam containing many different wavelengths of varying intensities
density
the overall darkness or blackness of an image
electromagnetic spectrum
- the entire range of wavelengths of electromagnetic radiations
- extends from gamma rays (with the shortest wavelengths) to radio waves (with the longest wavelengths)
position-indicating device (PID) / cone
- an open-ended, lead-lined cylinder extending from the opening of the tubehead
*aims and shapes the x-ray beam
gagging
the strong involuntary effort to vomit
line pairs/millimeter (lp/mm)
a measurement used to evaluate the ability of the computer to capture the resolution (detail) of an image
liable
- accountable
- legally obligated
posterior
towards the back
physiologic resorption
resorption of the teeth associated with the normal shedding of deciduous teeth
digital imaging
a system of filmless imaging used to capture an image using a sensor, breaking it into electronic pieces, and presenting and storing the image using a computer
background radiation
a form of ionizing radiation that is ubiquitous in the environment (ex: cosmic and terrestrial radiation)
voxel / volume element / three-dimensional pixel
the smallest element of a three-dimensional image
interproximal incipient caries
caries located between two teeth that extends less than halfway through the thickness of the enamel (appears radiolucent)
step-down transformer
in dental imaging, a device used to decrease the incoming voltage from 110 or 220 volts to the low voltage required (usually 3-5 volts)
transcranial projection
an extraoral projection used to evaluate the superior surface of the condyle and the articular eminence or to evaluate the movement of the condyle when the mouth is opened and to compare joint spaces
sharp
any object that can penetrate skin, including but not limited to, needles and scalpels
mandibular canal (anatomic term)
a tubelike passageway through bone that travels the length of the mandible (appears radiolucent with radiopaque borders)
element
substances that make up only one type of an atom
protective barrier
a barrier of radiation-absorbing material used to protect the operator from primary and scatter radiation (ex: a wall)
medial
toward the midline of the body
bite-wing receptor
an intraoral image receptor used to examine the crowns of both maxillary and mandibular teeth on one image
anterior
towards the front
indicator light
a component of the dental x-ray machine control panel that, when illuminated, indicates that the dental x-ray machine is turned on
pathologic resorption
resorption of a tooth not associated with the normal shedding of deciduous teeth
interproximal advanced caries
caries located between two teeth that extends to the dentino-enamel junction or through the dentino-enamel junction and into the dentin but does not extend through the dentin more than half the distance towards the pulp (appears radiolucent)
buccal object rule
- a method used to illustrate the orientation of structures portrayed in two images exposed at different angulations
- used to determine the buccal-lingual relationship of an object
radiolucent
the portion of an image that is dark or black, due to the structure readily permitting the passage of the x-ray beam and allowing more x-rays to reach the image receptor
short-term effects of radiation
effects of radiation that appear within minutes, days, or weeks, due to large amounts of radiation absorbed in a short time
gag reflex / pharyngeal reflex
gagging that is elicited by stimulation of the sensitive tissues of the soft palate region
sclerotic bone / osteosclerosis / idiopathic periapical osteosclerosis (anatomic term)
a term used to describe a well-defined radiopacity viewed on a dental image located below the apices of vital, noncarious teeth
lingual
the tooth surface towards the tongue
bloodborne pathogens
microorganisms present in blood that cause disease in humans
maxillary topographic occlusal projection
a type of occlusal projection used to examine the palate and anterior teeth of the maxilla
periapical receptor
an intraoral image receptor used to examine the entire tooth (crown and root) and supporting bone
mandibular condyle (anatomic term)
a rounded projection of bone extending from the posterosuperior border of the ramus of the mandible (appears radiopaque)
temporomandibular joint (TMJ)
the jaw joint, including the temporal bone, the mandible, and the articular disc between the two bones
interproximal severe caries
cares located between two teeth that extend through enamel, through dentin, and more than half the distance toward the pulp (appears radiolucent)
Frankfort plane
the imaginary plane that intersects the orbital rim of the eye and opening of the ear
equilateral triangle (geometry term)
in geometry, a triangle with three equal sides
canal (anatomic term)
a tubelike passageway through bone that houses nerves and blood vessels (appears radiolucent with radiopaque borders)
alveolar process
portion of the maxilla or mandible that encases and supports teeth
fossa (anatomic term)
a broad, shallow, scooped-out or depressed area of bone (appears radiolucent)
tomogram
an extraoral image used to examine the bony components of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ)
thermionic emission
the release of electrons from the tungsten filament when the electrical current passes through it and heats the filament
barrier sleeve
a plastic shield that protects an intraoral receptor from saliva and is used to minimize contamination
mandibular foramen (anatomic term)
a round or ovoid hole in bone on the lingual aspect of the ramus of the mandible (appears radiolucent)
focal spot
the tungsten target of the anode that converts bombarding electrons into x-ray photons, concentrating the electrons and creating an enormous amount of heat
liability
legal accountability
focal opacity
a term used to describe a well-defined, localized radiopaque lesion viewed on a dental image
three-dimensional digital imaging
an image that demonstrates structures in three dimensions
vacuum tube
a sealed glass tube from which most of the air has been evacuated
target-surface distance
the distance from the source of x-rays (tungsten target in the anode) to the surface of the patient’s skin
mental foramen (anatomic term)
an opening or hole in bone located on the external surface of the mandible in the region of the mandibular premolars (appears radiolucent)
radiolucency
an area on a dental image appears radiolucent ((dark/black) due to readily allowing the passage of the x-ray beam so that more x-rays reach the image receptor
cell
the basic structural unit of living organisms
control panel
a part of the x-ray machine that contains an on/off switch and indicator light, an exposure button and indicator light, and control devices to regulate the x-ray beam
long-term effects of radiation
- effects of radiation that appear years, decades, or generations after exposure
- associated with small amounts of radiation absorbed repeatedly over a long period of time
negligence
- omission or failure to provide reasonable precaution, care, or action
- occurs when the diagnosis made or the dental treatment falls below the standard of care
submentovertex projection
an extraoral projection used to identify the position of the condyles, demonstrate the base of the skull, and evaluate fractures of the zygomatic arch
quantity of the x-ray beam
- the number of x-rays produced in the dental x-ray unit
- controlled by the milliamperage
semicritical instruments
instruments that contact but do not penetrate soft tissue or bone and must be sterilized after each use
suture (anatomic term)
an immovable joint that represents a line of union between adjoining bones of the skull (appears radiolucent)
double image
- an exposure error that occurs when a PSP receptor is exposed twice in the patient’s mouth
- appears dark as the result of two superimposed images
target-receptor distance
the distance from the source of radiation (tungsten target in the anode) to the image receptor
tactile stimuli
stimuli originating from touch
disinfection
the act of disinfecting
target-object distance
the distance from the source of x-rays (tungsten target in the anode) to the object being imaged (tooth)
risk management
the policies and procedures that the dental professional should follow to reduce the change that a patient will take legal action against the dental professional or the supervising dentist
parallel (geometry term)
moving or lying in the same plane; always separated by the same distance and not intersecting
nonmetallic restoration
- restorations that do not completely absorb x-rays (ex: porcelain, composite, acrylic)
- vary in appearance from slightly radiopaque to radiolucent, depending on the density of the material
median palatal suture (anatomic term)
the immovable joint between the two palatine processes of the maxilla (appears radiolucent)
irregular radiopacity
a term used to describe a radiopacity viewed on a dental image that has irregular, ill-defined borders
alveolar crest / crestal bone
- the most coronal portion of alveolar bone found between teeth
- composed of cortical bone (appears radiopaque)
mental fossa (anatomic term)
a scooped-out, depressed area of bone located on the external of the anterior mandible (appears radiopaque)
amalgam
a restorative dental material, composed of an alloy and mercury (appears radiopaque)
root surface caries
caries located on the root surfaces of teeth (appears radiolucent)
transformer
a device used to increase or decrease the voltage of incoming electricity
localization techniques
method used to locate the position of a tooth or object in the jaws
vertical bite-wing
the bite-wing receptor is placed in the mouth with the long portion of the receptor in a vertical direction
electron volt
the unit of measurement for the binding energy of orbital electrons
periapical image
intraoral image that is used to examine the crowns and roots of teeth
cumulative occupational dose
the accumulated lifetime radiation dose for occupationally exposed workers
radiation monitoring badge
a device used to measure and monitor radiation exposure, worn by persons frequently exposed to radiation
glossopharyngeal air space (anatomic term)
refers to the airspace of the pharynx located posterior to the tongue and oral cavity (on a panoramic image, appears as a vertical radiolucent band superimposed over the ramus of the mandible)
kiloelectron volt (keV)
the unit of measurement for the binding energies of orbital electrons
composite resin
a tooth-colored restorative material that is bonded to tooth structure (appears radiolucent)
binding energy / electrostatic force / binding force
- the attraction between the positive nucleus and the negative electrons that maintains electrons in their orbits
- determined by the distance between the nucleus and electrons
edentulous patient
a patient without teeth
exposure button
a component of the dental x-ray machine control panel the activates the x-ray machine to produce x-rays
coulomb (C)
a unit of electrical charge
vital
living
energy
what occurs when matter is altered
extrusion
the abnormal displacement of teeth out of bone
pediatric patient
child patient
intermediate-level disinfectant
- chemical germicides classified by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as both “hospital disinfectants” and “tuberculocidals”
- recommended for all surfaces that have been contaminated
electromagnetic radiation
the propagation of wavelike energy through space or matter, accompanied by electric and magnetic fields (ex: cosmic rays, gamma rays, x-rays, ultraviolet rays, visible light, infrared light, radar waves, microwaves, and radio waves)
adjacent / proximal
objects next to/touching each other
magnification
- a geometric characteristic that refers to an image that appears larger than the actual size of the object it represents
- influenced by target-receptor distance and object-receptor distance
autotransformer
a voltage compensator that corrects for minor fluctuations in the current flowing through the x-ray machine
orbit / shell
the well-defined path of an electron around the nucleus of an atom
paralleling technique / extension cone paralleling (XCP) technique / right-angle technique / long-cone technique
- an intraoral imaging technique used to expose periapical receptors, where the receptor is placed parallel to the long axis of the tooth, the central ray is directed perpendicular to the receptor and the long axis of the tooth
- a beam alignment device must be used to keep the receptor parallel to the long axis to the tooth
cathode
- the negative electrode in the x-ray tube
- consists of a tungsten wire filament in a molybdenum cup
- supplies the electrons necessary to generate x-rays
rotation center
in panoramic imaging, the axis or pivotal point on which the image receptor and the x-ray tubehead rotate around the patient
buccal caries
caries located on the buccal tooth surface (appears radiolucent)
Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM) data
the universal format for handling, storing, and transmitting three-dimensional images
spatial resolution
a measurement of pixel size in multiplanar reconstruction
secondary radiation
- radiation created when the primary beam interacts with matter
- less penetrating than primary radiation
lateral pterygoid plate (anatomic term)
a wing-shaped bony projection of the sphenoid bone located distal to the maxillary tuberosity region (on a panoramic image, appears radiopaque)
cell differentiation
individual characteristics of a cell that determine the response of the cell to radiation exposure
complementary metal oxide semiconductor-active pixel sensor (CMOS-APS)
- silicon-based detector used in digital imaging
- differs from the charge-coupled device in the way that pixels are read*
image receptor
a recording medium (ex: PSP plate, digital sensor)
unilocular noncorticated
describes a radiolucency on a dental image that exhibits one compartment without a well-defined outer border
contrast resolution
the number of gray-scale colors available to be chosen for each pixel in the image
noncritical instrument
instruments that do not come in contact with mucous membranes
rampant
growing or spreading unchecked
radiosensitive cell
a cell that is sensitive to radiation (ex: small lymphocytes, blood, immature reproductive, young bone, and epithelial cells)
periodontal
around a tooth
developmental disability
a substantial impairment of mental or physical functioning that occurs before age 22 and is of indefinite duration
quality assurance
special procedures used to ensure the production of high-quality, diagnostic images
cathode ray
a stream of high-speed electrons that originate from the cathode in an x-ray tube
hypercementosis
the excess deposition of cementum on the root surfaces of teeth (appears radiopaque)
labial mounting
an image mounting method in which the radiographs are placed in the mount for the dental radiographer to view the images from the labial aspect
interpretation
an explanation
mandibular pediatric occlusal projection
a type of occlusal projection used to examine the anterior teeth of the mandible in children aged 5 years or younger
elongated image
an image of a tooth that appears long and distorted
infectious waste
waste that consists of blood, blood products, contaminated sharps, or other microbiologic products
styloid process (anatomic term)
a long, pointed, and sharp projection of bone that extends downward from the inferior surface of the temporal bone; located anterior to the mastoid process (on a panoramic image, appears radiopaque)
clinical attachment loss (CAL)
the measurement in millimeters of the distance between the cemento-enamel junction and the case of the sulcus or periodontal pocket
extraoral imaging
an inspection of large areas of the skull or jaws that requires the use of extraoral imaging receptors
nasal cavity / nasal fossa (anatomic term)
a pear-shaped compartment of bone located superior to the maxilla (appears radiolucent)
maxilla
the upper jaw
target lesion
a term used to describe a well-defined, localized radiopacity viewed on a dental image that is surrounded by a uniform radiolucent halo
tubehead
- the tightly sealed heavy metal housing that contains the dental x-ray tube, including the metal housing, insulating oil, tubehead seal, x-ray tube, transformers, aluminum disks, lead collimator, and position-indicating device
- contains a filament used to produce electrons and a target used to produce x-rays
horizontal angulation
the positioning of the position-indicating device in a horizontal plane
pericoronal
around the crown of a tooth
physical disability
a physical impairment involving vision, hearing, or mobility
mastoid process (anatomic term)
a marked prominence of the temporal bone located posterior and inferior to the temporomandibular joint (on a panoramic image, appears radiopaque)
metal housing
the metal casing of the dental x-ray tubehead that houses the x-ray tube and transformers
lateral jaw projection- body of the mandible
an extraoral projection used to evaluate the posterior body of the mandible in order to evaluate impacted teeth, fractures, and lesions located in the body of the mandible
temporomandibular joint tomography
an extraoral imaging technique used to examine the temporomandibular joint (TMJ)
radiation biology
the study of the effects of ionizing radiation on living tissues
extension arm
a part of the dental x-ray machine that suspends the x-ray tubehead and houses the electrical wires that extend from the control panel to the tubehead
lingual caries
caries located on the lingual tooth surface (appears radiolucent)
incisive canal / nasopalatine canal (anatomic term)
a passageway through bone that extends from the superior foramina of the incisive canal to the incisive foramen
coherent scatter / unmodified scatter
- one of the interactions of x-radiation with matter in which the path of a low-energy x-ray photon interacts with an outer-shell electron
- no change in the atom occurs, and an x-ray photon of scattered radiation is produced
curve of Spee (anatomic term)
the anterior-posterior anatomic curvature of the occlusal surfaces of the teeth
parenteral exposure
contact with blood or other infectious materials that results from piercing or puncturing the skin barrier
analog image
an image produced on conventional film that looks like the thing it represents
lingual mounting
an image mounting method in which the radiographs are placed in the mount for the dental radiographer to view the images from the lingual aspect
mesial
the tooth surface towards the midline of the mouth
penumbra
the unsharpness or blurring of the edges of a structure viewed on a dental image
full mouth series (FMX) / complete mouth series (CMS)
an intraoral series of dental images that show all of the tooth-bearing areas of the upper and lower jaws
alveolar bone
bone of the maxilla and mandible that supports and encases the roots of teeth (appears radiopaque)
wavelength
- the distance between the crest of one wave and the crest of the next wave
- determines the energy and penetrating power of the radiation
fracture
the breaking of a part (appears as a thin radiolucent line)
digital subtraction
a feature of digital imaging used to reverse the gray scale as an image is being viewed, causing radiolucent images (normally black) to appear white and radiopaque images (normally white) to appear black
Reverse Towne projection
an extraoral projection used to identify fractures of the condylar neck or ramus area
insulating oil
oil that surrounds the x-ray tube and transformers inside the x-ray tubehead
perpendicular (geometry term)
intersecting at or forming right angles
edentulous
- without teeth
- an area where teeth are no longer present
cephalostat
in extraoral imaging, a device that includes a receptor holder and head positioner that allow the dental radiographer to position both receptor and patient easily
mental ridge (anatomic term)
a linear prominence of a cortical bone located on the external surface of the anterior portion of the mandible (appears radiopaque)
lipline
an area of soft tissue seen on panoramic images formed by the positioning of the patient’s lips
bite-wing technique / interproximal technique
an intraoral imaging technique in which the interproximal surfaces of teeth are examined
focal trough / image layer
a three-dimensional curved zone in which structures are clearly demonstrated on a panoramic image
mitotic activity
- process of cell division
- determines the response of a cell to radiation exposure (cells that divide frequently are more sensitive to radiation)
step-up transformer
in dental imaging, a device used to increase the incoming line voltage from 110 or 220 volts to the high voltage required (usually 65,000-100,000 volts)
recovery period
the period during which cellular damage caused by radiation is followed by repair
radiology
- the science or study of radiation as used in medicine
- a branch of medical science that deals with the use of x-rays, radioactive substances, and other forms of radiant energy in the diagnosis and treatment of disease
nanometer
a measurement used for wavelength
horizontal
a side-to-side plane
stepwedge
a device constructed of uniform-layered thickness of an x-ray absorbing material (usually aluminum) used to demonstrate densities and contrast scales
non-diagnostic image
an image that is not diagnostically accurate due to technique errors and must be retaken
Rinn Snap-A-Ray Holder
an intraoral receptor holder used to stabilize an image receptor during exposure
lateral
away from the midline of the body
atomic weight / mass number
the total number of protons and neutrons in the nucleus of an atom
Stabe Biteblock
a disposable styrofoam device that can be used to hold an image receptor during exposure
period of injury
occurs after the latent period following exposure to radiation and can include a variety of cellular injuries
congruent triangles (geometry term)
in geometry, triangles that are identical and correspond exactly when superimposed
thyroid collar
a flexible lead shield used to protect the thyroid gland from scatter radiation during exposure
nasal septum (anatomic term)
a vertical bony wall or partition that divides the nasal cavity into the right and left nasal fossae (appears radiopaque)
external auditory meatus / external acoustic meatus (anatomic term)
a hole or opening in the temporal bone located superior and anterior to the mastoid process
maxillary sinuses (anatomic term)
paired cavities or compartments of bone located within the maxilla and located superior to the maxillary posterior teeth (appear radiolucent)
posterior teeth
first and second premolars/bicuspids, and first, second and third molars
interpret
to offer an explanation
Rinn XCP instrument
- a type of beam alignment device that is used with the paralleling technique
- includes plastic bite blocks, plastic aiming rings, and metal indicator arms
chairside manner
the manner in which a dental professional conducts themself at the chairside of a patient
intraoral
inside the mouth
genetic effects
effects of radiation that are not seen in the person irradiated but are passed on the future generations through genetic cells
disclosure
in dental imaging, the process of informing a patient about the particulars of exposing dental images
maximum permissible dose (MPD)
- maximum dose equivalent that a body is permitted to receive in a specific period
- the dose of radiation that the body can endure with little to no injury
alpha particles
- a type of particulate radiation emitted from the nuclei of heavy metals
- contain two protons and two neutrons and are positively charged
volt (V)
the unit of measurement for voltage
maxillary lateral occlusal projection
a type of occlusal projection used to examine the palatal roots of molar teeth and locate foreign bodies or lesions in the posterior maxilla
interproximal moderate caries
caries located between two teeth that extends more than halfway through the thickness of the enamel but does not involve the dentino-enamel junction (appears radiolucent)
zygomatic process of the maxilla (anatomic terms)
a bony projection of the maxilla that articulates with the zygoma (appears as a J-shaped or U-shaped radiopacity)
risk
the likelihood of adverse effects or death resulting from exposure to a hazard
floor of the nasal cavity (anatomic term)
a bony plate formed by the palatal process of the maxilla and the horizontal portions of the palatine bones (appears radiopaque)
aluminum disks
- disks or sheets of aluminum, usually 0.5mm thick, that are placed in path of the x-ray beam
- used to filter our the nonpenetrating, longer-wavelength x-rays
periapical granuloma
a lesion characterized by a localized mass of granulation tissue around the apex of a nonvital tooth (appears radiolucent)
genial tubercles (anatomic term)
- tiny bumps of bone located on the lingual surface of the anterior mandible (appear radiopaque)
- serves as attachment sites for the genioglossus and geniohyoid muscles
periodontal disease
a group of diseases that affect the tissues around teeth
image receptor holder
a device used to hold an intraoral image receptor in the mouth and stabilize the receptor’s position during the exposure
occlusal technique
the method used to expose a receptor in occlusal examination
mixed lucent-opaque
a term used to describe a lesion viewed on a dental image that exhibits both radiolucent and radiopaque components
collimator / collimating device
a diaphragm, usually made of lead, used to restrict the size and shape of the x-ray beam
quality control tests
specific tests designed to maintain and monitor dental x-ray equipment and supplies
dentulous
- with teeth
- areas that exhibit teeth
ear (anatomic term)
structure composed of cartilage with a thin covering of connective tissue and skin (on a panoramic image, appears as a radiopaque shadow projecting anteriorly and inferiorly from the mastoid process)
calculus
a stone-like concretion that forms on the crowns and roots of teeth as a result of the calcification of bacterial plaque (appears radiopaque)
inferior
describes an area that is lower on a vertical axis
beta particles
fast-moving electrons emitted from the nucleus of radioactive atoms
intraoral image
- an image the results when an image receptor is placed inside the mouth and exposed to x-rays
- used to examine teeth
subject thickness
the thickness of soft tissue and bone in a patient
forshortening
- a term describing the image of a tooth that appears shorter than the actual tooth
- results from steep or excessive vertical angulation
sensor
in digital imaging, an image receptor that is used to capture an intraoral or extraoral image
half-value layer (HVL)
the thickness of material that, when placed in the path of the x-ray beam, reduces the exposure rate by one-half
axial plane
- a horizontal plane that divides the body into superior and inferior parts
- runs parallel to the ground
bisecting technique
- an intraoral imaging technique used to expose periapical receptors
- the image receptor is placed along the lingual surface of the tooth, the central ray of the x-ray beam is directed perpendicular to the imaginary bisector formed by the image receptor and the long axis of the tooth
- receptor holder is used to stabilize the image receptor
ampere (A)
the unit of measure used to describe the number of electrons passing through a conductor * (electrical current strength)*
high-voltage circuit
- the circuit that provides the high voltage required to accelerate electrons and to generate x-rays in the x-ray tube
- controlled by the kilovoltage settings
- uses 65,000-100,000 volts
molybdenum cup
a portion of the cathode in the x-ray tube that focuses the electrons into a narrow beam and directs that beam across the tube toward the tungsten target in the anode
dental pediatrics
the branch of dentistry dealing with the diagnosis and treatment of dental diseases in children
amperage
- the number of electrons that pass through a conductor
- the strength of an electrical current
lateral fossa (anatomic term)
a smooth, depressed area of the maxilla located just interior and medial to the infraorbital foramen between the maxillary canine and lateral incisor (appears radiolucent)
latent period
the amount of time that elapses between exposure to ionizing radiation and the appearance of observable clinical signs
cone beam volume tomography (CBVT) / cone beam volume imagining (CBVI)
the term used for computer-assisted digital imaging in dentistry to differentiate the dental imaging procedure from medical computer tomography (CT)
mandibular cross-sectional occlusal projection
a type of occlusal projection used to examine the buccal and lingual aspects of the mandible and locate foreign bodies in the floor of the mouth
inferior border of the mandible (anatomic term)
a linear prominence of cortical bone that defines the lower border of the mandible (appears radiopaque)
horizontal bite-wing
the bite-wing receptor is placed in the mouth with the long portion of the receptor in a horizontal direction
dental radiography
the production of radiographs of teeth and adjacent structures by the exposure of an image receptor to x-rays
atomic number
the total number of protons in the nucleus, which is also equal to the number of electrons outside the nucleus
occlusal moderate caries
caries located on the occlusal surfaces of posterior teeth that extend into dentin (appears as a thin radiolucent line)
ghost image
an artifact on a dental image produced when a radiodense object (ex: earring) is penetrated twice by the x-ray beam (appears radiopaque)
long-scale contrast
- a term describing an image with many densities, or many shades of gray
- results from the use of a higher kilovoltage range
dental imaging
the creation of digital representation of anatomic structures for the purpose of diagnosis
copper stem
a portion of the anode that dissipates heat away from the tungsten target
multifocal confluent radiopacity
a term used to describe multiple radiopacities on a dental image that appear to overlap or flow together
image interpretation
- an explanation of what is viewed on a dental image
- the ability to read what is revealed by a dental image
photoelectric effect
one of the interactions of x-radiation with matter where the x-ray photon collides with a tightly bound, inner-shell electron and gives up all its energy to eject that electron from its orbit; all of the energy of the photon is absorbed by the displaced electron in the form of kinetic energy
exposure factors
factors that influence the density of an image (ex: milliamperage, kilovoltage, exposure time)
x-ray tube
a component part of the x-ray tubehead that generates x-rays, including the leaded-glass vacuum tube, cathode, and anode
confidential
- private
- in dental imaging, all information contained in the dental record is private
characteristic radiation
a form of radiation that occurs when a high-speed electron dislodges from an inner-shell electron from an atom, causing ionization of the atom
lead collimator
a lead diaphragm used to restrict the size and shape of the x-ray beam
occlusal receptor
an image receptor is placed intraorally so that the patient occludes on the receptor in order to examine large areas of the maxilla or mandible
coronoid process (anatomical term)
a marked prominence of bone located on the anterior ramus of the mandible (appears radiopaque)
endodontic
found within a tooth
