Student name: HUYNH NGOC BAO TRAN

Student ID: C190486

Report Assignment 3: Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology (Dr. Takashi Nakamoto)

List the items that should be explained to the patient before taking an intraoral radiograph,
including the reasons for the explanation.

Report
The patient must be informed about the procedure and consent obtained before
radiographs are taken. Although the majority of patients accept dental x-rays as part of their
diagnosis without hesitation, some patients worry about radiation exposure for themselves or
other family members, usually their children. So it is crucial to explain and communicate with
patient clearly and confidently about their concerns to prepare for the task. Moreover,
practitioner should also provide instructions as to what the patient can do to help ensure a quality
image, avoid retakes, and reduce radiation exposure.
First is to tell the patient why radiographs are needed as part of the diagnosis, such as
detection of interproximal caries, periapical infections suggested by pain, etc.
Prior to machine entry and head positioning, the clinician should go over the procedure
with the patient so that they may anticipate what will happen next. In addition, measures taken to
reduce patient exposure, such as fast film or digital sensors, rectangular collimation, and thyroid
collars should be described to the patient.
Next, the patient should be instructed to remove any facial jewelry in the beam path,
eyeglasses, intraoral prostheses and any metal objects to prevent "ghost images". These items
produce radiopaque artifacts on the image if left in place during exposure.
Finally, point out that the exposure is minimal in terms of background radiation with
these protective measures. Make sure that they know we care about their comfort and concerns,
and are being as efficient as possible.
Moreover, ensuring to the new patient that their results of earlier X-rays has obtained that
may assist in diagnosis and only the exposures needed for their benefit will be made, therefore,
avoid unnecessary repeat investigations.