Dental Radiography Basics - Dental radiographs, commonly known as X-rays, are used to diagnose hidden dental structures, masses, bone loss, and cavities. - X-ray radiation penetrates oral structures at different levels, appearing lighter in teeth and darker in caries, infections, and bone density changes. - The dosage of X-ray radiation received by a dental patient is typically small, equivalent to a few days worth of background environmental radiation exposure. - Lead shields and aprons are used to reduce incidental exposure for both patients and technicians. - Digital X-rays are replacing film, offering faster processing and lower radiation exposure.

Intraoral Radiographic Views - Intraoral radiographic views involve placing the film or sensor inside the mouth. - Periapical views evaluate the tooth's periapical area and surrounding bone. - Periapical radiographs are used to detect inflammation, assess periodontal problems, diagnose trauma or fractures, plan extractions, detect unerupted teeth, evaluate endodontic treatments, and assess implants. - Bitewing views visualize the crowns of posterior teeth and the alveolar bone in relation to the cementoenamel junctions. - Occlusal views reveal the skeletal or pathologic anatomy of the mouth or palate.

Extraoral Radiographic Views - Extraoral radiographic views place the film or sensor outside the mouth. - Lateral cephalogram evaluates dentofacial proportions and malocclusion. - Antero-posterior radiograph provides a face-forward view. - Lateral cephalometric radiography is used in orthodontics and orthognathic surgery. - Panoramic films show a greater field of view, including mandibular condyles and maxillary sinuses. - Panoramic films were developed by the US Army for quick assessment of soldiers' oral health. - Panoramic films can detect and localize mandibular fractures and pathologic entities. - Computed Tomography (CT) scans offer high-quality images and accuracy. - Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) generates 3D images and overcomes the limitations of 2D imaging.

Localisation Techniques - Parallax is used to assess relationships of structures in a 3D object. - Parallax is used to determine the position of an unerupted tooth in relation to the erupted ones. - Radiographic localization techniques are used in endodontics, fracture assessment, and bone evaluation. - Horizontal parallax involves taking two radiographs at different horizontal angles. - Vertical parallax involves taking two radiographs at different vertical angulations. - The SLOB rule states that the more distant object will appear to move in the same direction as the tube shift. - The MBD rule is commonly employed in endodontics to determine the position of the buccal root or canal. - CBCT can replace parallax radiographs and provide 3D information on impacted teeth.

Faults and Image Quality - Faults in radiographs can arise due to various factors such as image receptor type, X-ray equipment, and processing materials. - Some film faults include dark film, pale image, grainy digital image, and foreshortening/elongation of structures. - Other faults include overlapping proximal surfaces, slanting of the occlusal plane, and cone cut appearance. - A set of criteria for acceptable image quality has been created. - Grades are assigned to radiographic images based on their diagnostic acceptability. - Film reject analysis helps identify and address common errors in radiographs. - Regular analysis of rejected films can improve the quality of future radiographs.