Oct 23, 2026  
2026-2027 Academic Catalog 
    
2026-2027 Academic Catalog
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DNTA 1350 - Dental Radiology


Credits: 3

Catalog Description
Dental Radiology includes the history of radiology, theoretical concepts of the characteristics of radiation, the effects of radiation exposure, roentgenographic anatomy and pathology, radiographic exposure techniques, film processing and mounting, film evaluation, radiation biology and protection, and intra- and extra-oral radiographic procedures.

Prerequisite(s) (must have a grade of C or better): CMST 2220  and Admission to the Dental Assisting Program


Corequisite(s):
Recommended Skills, Abilities, or Coursework: Must be able to read and write at a college level as demonstrated by meeting enrollment requirements for ENGL 1120 /ENGL 1121 . 

Additional fee to student: Yes

Learner Outcomes
  1. Retrace the history of dental radiography and define key radiographic terms and usage. 
  2. Describe and differentiate among intraoral image types, their recorded structures, and factors that influence the quality of radiographic images. 
  3. Explain the characteristics of radiation, x-ray production, and factors affecting the x-ray beam and image quality. 
  4. Operate the x-ray machine safely and describe the function of its individual parts. 
  5. Capture intra- and extra-oral photographs.
  6. Apply the principles of radiation biology, including ALARA methods, to minimize occupational/patient exposure to radiation. 
  7. Describe and practice proper techniques for the paralleling and bisecting techniques in intraoral radiography. 
  8. Explain and demonstrate the methods of processing, mounting, and labeling radiographs, including the necessary components for darkroom maintenance. 
  9. Describe film composition, storage, processing chemicals, and quality assurance methods in radiography. 
  10. Evaluate radiographs for errors in exposure, technique, and processing, and identify normal anatomical landmarks and pathology. 
  11. Explain and demonstrate patient management techniques, localization methods, and extraoral exposure techniques. 
  12. Describe the concepts of computed tomography, cone beam imaging, digital radiology, and implant radiology techniques. 
  13. Apply infection control principles in dental radiology and complete radiographic documentation. 
  14. Perform intraoral exposure techniques and apply selection criteria for dental x-ray exposures. 
  15. Demonstrate cultural competency by recognizing and respecting diverse cultural beliefs and practices regarding dental radiology and patient care.

Major Areas of Course Content
  1. History of Radiology 
  2. Operator/Patient Protection Methods 
  3. Infection Control/Radiation Health and Safety
  4. Paralleling/Localization Technique 
  5. Characteristics of Radiation, the X-Ray Machine, Imaging, and X-Ray Production 
  6. Film Evaluation: Mounting, Exposure, and Processing Errors 
  7. Facial Landmarks and Anatomy Related to Radiology 
  8. Film Composition, Processing, and Quality Assurance 
  9. Patient Management 
  10. Radiation Biology and Protection 
  11. Accessory Imaging Techniques 
  12. Extraoral and Advanced Imaging Techniques 
  13. Radiographic Interpretation and Pathology 
  14. Digital Imaging 
  15. Implant Radiology 
  16. Performance of Radiographic Procedures
  17. Documentation of Procedures

Credit for Prior Learning Options
No credit for prior learning option is available for this course.



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