The dental xray set, conventional image receptors and processing Flashcards
What are the requirements of a dental X-ray set?
Safe and accurate
Capable of generating X-rays of appropriate kV
Small
Easy to manoeuvre and position
Stable and balanced once positioned
Easily folded and stored
Simple to operate
Robust
What does the tube head contain?
Step up transformer X-ray tube N.b. Small hole in the side to show where the X-ray tube is j side (the tungsten target)
What are the parts of a tube head?
Filament supply (cathode) Tungsten target Copper a mode Lead glass envelope
Which directions are X-ray beams produced in an X-ray tube?
All directions but lead envelope means they can only leave I’m a single direction
Why do we filter the X-ray beam?
To remove low energy photons (increase exposure but have no benefit to the image) =decrease patient dose
How thick should the Aluminium foil be for sets below 70kV?
1.5 mm
How thick should the aluminium foil be for X-ray sets 70kV +?
2.5mm
Why do we collimate the beam?
To match the beam size to the image receptor = decrease dose to patient - need to rotate to match the direction of the film - reduces dose by nearly 50% - need to be more precise when aiming to avoid cone cutting
What controls can be found on the control panel?
- on/off switch (outside room where emitting X-rays) - timer - exposure time selection - warning lights and audible signals - exposure button
What are the variable factors on an X-ray set?
kV mA Time
What does and increased kV do?
Faster acceleration of X-rays = more penetrative = better quality - decrease patient dose - decrease contrast (more shades of gray = less absolute difference between high and low densities - increased scatter)
What is a dental X-ray set made up of?
A tube head Positioning arms Control panel and circuitry
What does an increased mA/time do?
Increased patient dose Increased film blackening (if too low = too light and over exposed)
What does mA/time do?
Determined the quantity of X-ray photons The number needed depends on the thickness of the structure you are xraying n.b. As this is very similar in dental radiographs we keep the mA the same but increase the time for molars (especially uppers)
What is an ac current?
Goes up and down (some negative) = must get rid if negative bit)
What is a half wave ratification?
Where the negative part of the wave is flipped
What is three wave ratification?
What is constant peak potential?
The wave is flipped and stays constantly at the peak
What are the advantages of constant peak potential?
X-ray production per unit time is more efficient More high energy photons per exposure Fewer low energy harmful photons are produced Shorter exposure times
What is the problem with old plastic pointed cones on X-ray machines?
They have a short- focal skin distance (fsd)
What is the problem with having a short focal skin distance?
Divergent beam = magnification of the image and a greater area is irradiated
How long should a cone be to be classed as long?
20cm
What is the consequence of using a long focal skin distance?
Beam is near parallel = minimal magnification and less area irradiated
What are the two types of conventional image receptors?
Direct action film Indirect action film
What is a direct action film?
The X-ray photons interact with the film
What is an indirect action film?
The X-ray photons interact with an intensifying screen producing light which interacts with the film
What does the packaging of a direct film look like?
Front of the film is white and back is coloured depending on the type of X-ray film in use
Which size film do you use for: Posterior teeth Anterior teeth Occlusals
Posterior teeth = size 2 Anterior teeth = size 0 or 1 Occlusal teeth = size 4
What are the components inside the film packet of a direct film?
Black paper Film Lead foil Moisture resistant outer cover
What is the black paper used for?
Protective layer (the emulsion is easily scratched/damaged)
What is the purpose of the lead foil?
When X-ray passes through it can cause scatter and bounce back off of other structures in the mouth = the lead reduces the exposure from the rest of the mouth but does not stop everything
What are the layers in cross section of a film?
Protective layer Emulsion Adhesive Transparent plastic base (blue tinted) Adhesive Emulsion Protective coating