Q: What type of error can you see on this radiograph?
(A). Double exposure
(B). Improper horizontal exposure
(C). Improper vertical exposure
(D). Backward film placement
What observations can you make on this radiograph?
- The film shows many teeth outlines
- The exposure is darker than usual
- Or just something is weird
According to our observation, a double exposure can be suspected. Let’s go through the process of elimination to understand why the other answer choices are incorrect.
- Improper horizontal exposure = overlap in interproximal areas.
- Improper vertical exposure = elongation or foreshortening.
- Herringbone or waffle pattern = backward placement of film. In such case, place the film with the smooth white side next to the tooth and the bumpy side away (there is a lead foil on the backside of the film packet to prevent backscatter).
While we are at it, let’s learn about 2 more errors!
o Mark across film = bent film.
o Circular white border = cone cut.
Answer: A. Double exposure
Learn more for the dental hygiene boards
Directly from StudentRDH radiology boards review, in the topic of intraoral images:
o Overlap = inappropriate horizontal angulation → direct beams through contacts.
o Foreshortening = too much vertical angulation → decrease angulation.
o Elongation = too little vertical angulation → increase vertical angulation.
o Mark across film = bent film → store film properly.
o Circular white border = cone cut → PID should cover the entire surface of the film.
o Herringbone or waffle pattern = backward placement of film → place the film with the smooth, white side next to the tooth and bumpy side away (there is lead foil on the backside of the film packet to prevent backscatter).
o A darker film with outlines of many teeth = double exposure → use film only once.
You can learn about all the technique error in StudentRDH Radiology Summary for the dental hygiene boards. If you are a member of the FULL course, click below to continue reviewing right now (while your brain is curious!). There are many other errors that can be made during processing. Luckily, the dental world is switching to digital radiography, which eliminates processing errors. But know that the dental hygiene national board exams DO have questions related to manual processing. Although that portion is diminishing, we still need to be prepared for the questions. At StudentRDH, we have a full section about the manual process and make it the ULTIMATE summary. Our goal is the stay the best online prep solution for the dental hygiene boards. Each chapter is made up of bullet point notes because who needs all that “fluff?”
If you want to share the love, tell your #DHschool friends that manual processing WILL be in the exams. I bet they will thank you for that!
Keep being amazing #DHstars #FutureRDH; the world needs more extraordinary people like you! Always wish you the best.
Related post on Radiology: Radiographic findings
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