DNTL 1107: Dental Radiography Module
Department
Dental Radiography
Description
This theory /clinical 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. Radiography prescription requirements, chart entries, quality assurance and image management are discussed. Digital and conventional 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. Successful completion of the theory portion of the course is a mandatory pre-requisite to attending the clinical component.
The clinical component of the course is delivered on-site at the VCC Dental Clinic. In the clinical setting, using digital and conventional technology and various techniques, competencies are met through simulated manikin (SIM), peer (PR) and patient care (PC) practice.
Students who successfully complete both the theory and clinical components of this course are eligible to apply for the Radiography Acknowledgement document from the College of Dental Surgeons of British Columbia (CDSBC).
Year of study
1st Year Post-secondary
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.
- Practice as a professional. (SIM/PR/PC)
- Integrate knowledge/ problem-solve. (SIM/PR/PC)
- Maintain infection control. (SIM/PR/PC)
- Maintain safety. (SIM/PR/PC)
- Expose dental radiographic images. (SIM/PC/PR)
- Process/scan dental radiographic images. (SIM/PR/PC)
- Mount and critique dental radiographic images (SIM/PR/PC)
- Manage dental radiographic images. (SIM/PR/PC)
- Manage patients. (PR/PC)
Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition (PLAR)
None
Hours
Lecture, Online, Seminar, Tutorial: 40
Clinical, Lab, Rehearsal, Shop, Kitchen, Simulation, Studio: 27
Practicum, Self-Paced, Individual Learning: 0
Total Hours: 67
Instructional Strategies
The theory units are delivered on-line through scenarios, assignments, study questions and self-assessments and is designed to provide the student with the theory to support the clinical radiography competencies for Chariside (Level 1) Dental Assistant practice.
Small group clinical demonstrations and instructor guided feedback practice sessions in a simulated
(SIM), peer (PR) and patient care (PR) practice.
Grading System
Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory
Passing grade
S= 64% theory+ S completion of radiography competencies
Evaluation Plan
Type
|
Percentage
|
Assessment activity
|
Assignments
|
35
|
Multiple assignments. (Weighting aligns with EdCo approval of CDA Distance Program)
|
Exam
|
65
|
Final exam (Weighting aligns with EdCo approval of CDA Distance Program)
|
Clinical Examination
|
|
Satisfactory completion as per rubrics - radiography (operator)
|
Participation
|
|
Mandatory attendance (clinical) as per departmental requirements (100%)
|
Course topics
- Radiation Use in Dentistry
- Dental Radiography Machines
- Radiation Safety and Protection
- Dental Radiographic Imaging Technology
- Dental Radiographic Imaging Techniques
- Anatomical Landmarks
- Processing and Scanning Dental Radiographic Images
- Mounting and Critiquing Dental Radiographic Images
- Exposure and Technique Errors
- Exposure Modifications
- Supplemental Dental Radiographic Images
- Pedodontic Radiogaphy
- Edentulous Radiography
- Extra-oral Radiography
- Patient Records
- Patient Management
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.