vcc.ca
DNTL 1108: Dental Radiography Module
Effective date
September 2026
Department
Dental Radiography
School
Health Sciences
Description
This module introduces the students to the history and current application of radiation in dentistry. The components, operation and variables of the dental x-ray machine are examined in tandem with the principles of radiation biology, safety and protection for patients and operators. Intra and extra-oral radiographic technologies and various imaging techniques are explored. Principles for inspecting and assessing the oral cavity and dentition and the required modifications in exposure techniques are examined.
The clinical component of the course is delivered on-site at the Vancouver Community College dental clinic. Using direct and indirect imaging techniques, clinical competencies are met through simulated manikin, peer and patient care practice.
Students who successfully complete both the theory and clinical components of this module are eligible to apply for the Radiography Acknowledgement document from the British Columbia College of Oral Health Professionals (BCCOHP).
Note: Students must successfully complete the theory component of the module prior to participating in the clinical component.
Credits
4.0
Year of study
1st Year Post-secondary
Prerequisites
None
Corequisites
None
Course Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
- Explain the history and current applications of radiation in dentistry.
- Describe the components of the dental x-ray machine.
- Explain principles of radiation safety and protection.
- Explain dental radiography technologies and exposure techniques.
- Describe the appearance of extra/intra-oral radiographic landmarks.
- Explain dental radiography prescription requirements and chart entries.
- Explain dental radiography exposure and technique errors and corrective measures.
- Describe supplemental, pedodontic, edentulous and extra-oral dental radiographic imaging.
- Demonstrate professional standards.
- Expose dental radiographic images.
- Demonstrate scanning of dental radiographic images.
- Demonstrate patient management.
- Demonstrate quality assurance.
Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition (PLAR)
None
Hours
Lecture, Online, Seminar, Tutorial: 50
Clinical, Lab, Rehearsal, Shop, Kitchen, Simulation, Studio: 45
Total Hours: 95
Clinical, Lab, Rehearsal, Shop, Kitchen, Simulation, Studio: 45
Total Hours: 95
Instructional Strategies
The theory units are delivered asynchronously on-line, through scenarios, assignments, study questions, self-assessments and a final exam. These activities are designed to provide the foundational theory necessary to meet the clinical competencies.
Clinical demonstrations and guided feedback practice sessions are lead by an instructor, on-site. Using various techniques, radiographic images are exposed on manikins and patients.
Clinical demonstrations and guided feedback practice sessions are lead by an instructor, on-site. Using various techniques, radiographic images are exposed on manikins and patients.
Grading System
Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory
Passing grade
S= 64% theory+ S completion of radiography competencies
Evaluation Plan
|
Type |
Percentage |
Assessment activity |
|
Assignments |
60 |
Multiple assignments. (Weighting aligned with CDA Online Program) |
|
Exam |
40 |
Final exam. (Weighting aligned with CDA Online Program) |
|
Clinical Examination |
|
Satisfactory completion as per clinical rubrics. |
|
Participation |
|
Mandatory attendance (clinical) as per departmental requirements (100%). |
Course topics
- X-ray Production
- Radiation Hygiene
- Equipment and Supplies
- Characteristics of Radiographs
- Patient Management
- Exposure Techniques
- Landmarks
- Quality Assurance
Notes:
- Course contents and descriptions, offerings and schedules are subject to change without notice.
- Students are required to follow all College policies including ones that govern their educational experience at VCC. Policies are available on the VCC website at:
https://www.vcc.ca/about/governance--policies/policies/. - To find out if there are existing transfer agreements for this course, visit the BC Transfer Guide at https://www.bctransferguide.ca.