This course is for the second year dental hygiene student. Therefore, the course is designed to continue to develop learning procedures which are of technical and interpretative value that results in a useful diagnostic tool. The course will be taught for one semester of fifteen weeks. Class time is based upon two hours each week with assigned laboratory experiences. Materials presented in this course are interrelated with the other courses taught in the Program of Dental Hygiene.
Radiographs are an asset to dental diagnosis and treatment only when interpreted correctly.
Although present legislation does not allow the dental hygienist to diagnose, it is important that the hygienist be able to recognize radiographic phenomena whether it be pathological or not pathological. Both normal and abnormal anatomical structures must be distinguishable from pathology. Extension of the dental hygienist's services to the patient and to the dentist is possible through application of this knowledge and skill. Proficiency in understanding concepts of periapical, and bitewing film projections. Ability to practice preventive radiology procedures and observes radiologic hygiene measure.