Course Outline for Dental Hygiene 74B
Dental Radiography II

Effective: Fall 2022
SLO Rev: 11/28/2016

Catalog Description:

DHYG 74B - Dental Radiography II

1.50 Units

Continuation of clinical experience in exposing Xrays, self-assessment of surveys; principles of Panographic radiology; occlusal and pedodontic surveys; emphasis on radiographic interpretative skills.
Prerequisite: DHYG 74A.
CB03: TOP Code 1240.20 - Dental Hygienist*
Course Grading: Letter Grade Only
Type Units Inside of Class Hours Outside of Class Hours Total Student Learning Hours
Lecture 0.50 9.00 18.00 27.00
Clinical 1.00 54.00 0.00 54.00
Total 1.50 63.00 18.00 81.00

Measurable Objectives:

Upon completion of this course, the student should be able to:
  1. produce full mouth radiographic surveys for patients presenting moderate to difficult management problems;
  2. analyze and communicate the principles of film duplication;
  3. identify and describe various image receptors;
  4. demonstrate the use of a variety of holding devices;
  5. identify the mechanical parts of the panographic x-ray equipment and the function and operation of each;
  6. demonstrate appropriate panographic techniques in patient positioning and selection of exposure factors;
  7. produce diagnostically acceptable panographic surveys;
  8. explain the fundametal concepts of digital radiography;
  9. identify and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of digital radiography;
  10. integrate and expand knowledge of anatomical landmarks and radiographic interpretation;
  11. identify and assess technical and processing errors;
  12. communicate and demonstrate proper record keeping;
  13. list and discuss the ADA based criteria for selection of appropriate radiographs.

Course Content:

  1. Intraoral radiography techniques
    1. horizontal angulation
    2. vertical angulation
  2. Extraoral radiographic techniques
    1. panograph
  3. Digital radiographic techniques
  4. Alternative film holding devices
    1. RINN
    2. Snap-A-Ray
  5. Anatomical Landmarks
  6. Interpretive skills (diagnostic quality) 
  7. Mounting
    1. full mouth series
    2. bite wings
  8. Duplicating film
  9. Special needs patient
  10. Patient records
  11. Legal restrictions
  12. ADA radiographic decision making process

Methods of Instruction:

  1. Audiovisual aids including Dxttr II, Schick Digital System
  2. Class discussion and self-evaluation
  3. Group and individual evaluation of films
  4. Lecture/Discussion
  5. Demonstration/Exercise
  6. Distance Education
  7. Manufacturer’s manuals
  8. The X-ray clinic patient

Assignments and Methods of Evaluating Student Progress:

1. Typical Assignments
  1. Write a brief research essay on infection and engineering controls relevant to dental radiology.
  2. Research and collect data on the management and disposal of hazardous radiographic waste as it applies to a local area where you intend to practice as a Registered Dental Hygienist.
  3. Write a short essay on research conducted in a private practice addressing radiographic practice techniques and equipment utilization.
  4. Research case studies supporting ADA based radiographic decision making process.
2. Methods of Evaluating Student Progress
  1. Exams/Tests
  2. Quizzes
  3. Class Participation
  4. Written and/or oral critiques of radiographic work
  5. Clinical performance 1) patient management 2) exposure, processing and mounting techniques 3) clinic rotational participation 4) clinical proficiencies
  6. Affective skills
  7. Practical Examination
3. Student Learning Outcomes
Upon the completion of this course, the student should be able to:
  1. Expose and interpret dental radiographs
  2. Implement ADA criteria for making an evidence based decision regarding taking of dental radiographs

Textbooks (Typical):

  1. Iannucci, J. & Howerton, L. (2016). Dental Radiography: Principles and Techniques (5th). Elsevier.
Additional Materials:
  • Gloves
  • Masks
  • Safety Glasses
  • Protective clothing - clinical attire

Abbreviated Class Schedule Description:

Continuation of clinical experience in exposing Xrays, self-assessment of surveys; principles of Panographic radiology; occlusal and pedodontic surveys; emphasis on radiographic interpretative skills.
Prerequisite: DHYG 74A.