Radiology

Level of Study

Bachelor

Teaching semester

Spring and autumn

Objectives and Content

The dental radiology course is based on knowledge about radiation physics, chemistry, anatomy and pathology, and it includes radiographic examination of the oral cavity as part of the overall examination of the patient.

Learning Outcomes

After completing the course, the student will be able to:

Knowledge

• demonstrate knowledge of physical entities of oral diagnostic radiology; production of x-rays, projection geometry, and the interaction of x-rays with matter
• get familiarized with digital intraoral techniques including photo-stimulable phosphor (PSP) plates and solid-state sensors
• demonstrate knowledge of different image acquiring techniques for clinical dental radiographic examination
• demonstrate an ability of systematic interpretation of intraoral radiographs
• demonstrate good knowledge of the radiographic appearance of anatomical structures and com-mon pathological changes in the teeth and jaws
• demonstrate an understanding of the biological effects of radiation, and the principles of radiation protection
• demonstrate good knowledge on when intraoral periapical radiographs are indicated

Skills

• acquire intraoral radiographs of diagnostically acceptable quality, using the proper technique and optimized exposure parameters (kV, mA, s), and recognize the need for re-exposure
• scan PSP plates to obtain digital intraoral radiographs
• perform optimized intraoral radiographic examinations with parallel technique (periapical and bitewing), and on indication perform alternative techniques (bisecting-angle technique)
• perform extraoral radiographic examinations (panoramic)
• optimize viewing conditions, and perform systematic viewing and interpretation and construct a written report of intraoral radiographs
• recognize the appearance of anatomic structures on dental images, and can identify dental filling materials, diagnose caries, marginal and apical periodontitis, and periimplantitis
• apply radiation protection principles, including performing the justification process for intraoral radiographs

Competence

• act responsibly and care for the patients
• explain to the patient why intraoral radiographs are necessary and what can be seen on such radiographs
• apply radiation protection means to limit exposure for patients, accompanying persons and personnel

Access to the Course

Bachelor's Programme in Dental Hygiene

Teaching and learning methods

The program consists of 15 hours of theoretical education (lectures) in parallel with 39 hours of clinical seminars, and then 15 hours of auscultation. The seminars contain practical demonstrations of intraoral radiographic examination followed by hands-on training for a full-mouth set of radiographs; 14 images encompassing all tooth-bearing areas, and bitewing. The students start by practicing on phantom heads, and continue with patients once they have learned to take all necessary images. Acquisition of panoramic imaging will also be demonstrated and practiced by the students. During the seminars the students also train in image interpretation and diagnostics. For the auscultation, the students first follow the dental assistants, and then continue working more independently with the patients.

Teaching Methods and Extent of Organized Teaching

The course consists of 15 systematic lectures and 39 hours of seminars, demonstrations and clinical training with x-ray photography and image analysis.

The seminar series includes a test of knowledge and interpretation of radiographs.

Compulsory Assignments and Attendance

Clinical seminars and auscultation is mandatory. In the range of seminars, the students have to pass the anatomy test before further clinical training on patients can commence.

Before the student can be enrolled for the written examination the clinical instructor evaluates the students¿ ability to take diagnostically acceptable radiographs for a full status, and assess whether the student can evaluate image quality, identify dental filling materials, and diagnose caries, marginal and apical periodontitis, and peri-implantitis.

Forms of Assessment

Four hours written examination (A-F). In order to proceed to examination the students have to complete the mandatory clinical work; attendance to seminars and auscultation, and sufficient practical skills with regard to justification, planning and performing intraoral radiographic examination of a patient.

Grading Scale

A-F

Assessment Semester

Autumn

Course Evaluation

The course is evaluated every three years

Department

Department of clinical dentistry