DENTAL RADIOGRAPHY
SECTIO Diagnostic Imaging DATE OF ISSUE: 16.09.2
N: 3
PART: Dental Radiography (L5 – VN3) WRITTEN BY: WL/MJ
PAGES: REVIEWED/
APPROVED BY:
INTRODUCTION: Canine and feline dental radiography, is a diagnostic imaging technique
used to assess the oral health of animals. Dental radiography is a valuable tool for
identifying dental problems, including tooth decay, fractures, abscesses, and other oral
diseases that may not be visible during a regular physical examination.
Here's some important information about canine and feline dental radiography:
1. Purpose: Dental radiography helps veterinarians evaluate the teeth, roots, and
surrounding structures. It is essential for diagnosing dental issues and planning
appropriate treatment, which may include tooth extractions, root canals, or other oral
surgeries.
2. Types of Dental Radiographs:
Intraoral Radiographs: These are taken with X-ray film or digital sensors placed
inside the mouth. They provide detailed views of individual teeth.
Extraoral Radiographs: These are taken with X-ray machines outside the mouth.
They provide broader views of the entire oral cavity and are useful for assessing
the overall dental health and identifying problems such as jaw fractures.
3. Benefits:
Early detection of dental problems
Accurate assessment of tooth root health
Identification of hidden dental diseases
Positioning guidelines for dental radiographs
Use of the dental X-Ray unit
Safety considerations
Safety is always important when it comes to the production of x-rays. Radiation exposure in
dental radiography is comparatively low, but one should always practice ALARA (as low as
reasonably achievable). All personnel must be aware of their own radiation exposure and
take all precautions necessary to reduce exposure. Staff should leave the room whenever
possible. Radiation exposure can be minimized by using three simple methods: distance,
shielding, and exposure time. In dental radiography, distance is the most helpful method.
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DENTAL RADIOGRAPHY
Staff should remain at a maximum distance from the x-ray beam to reduce exposure to
scatter. If staff cannot be at least 6 feet from the primary beam, they should try to use
approved 0.5-mm lead shielding. This shielding can consist of lead aprons that include a
thyroid shield or a full-length lead shield. Minimize the length of exposure by using the
shortest exposure time required to get a diagnostic image, and strive to achieve the best
diagnostic image in the fewest exposures possible. Exposure will be minimized if all
personnel practice ALARA. No radiation exposure is risk-free.
SOURCES
BSAVA Textbook of Veterinary Nursing 6th Edition. Chapter 25, Page 895-898
Shaw, Liane. Take a Bite Out of Dental Radiology: Positioning for picture-perfect views. Today’s
Veterinary Nurse. Winter 2018 Issue. Dec. 22, 2017.
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