Academic Catalog

D A 53A: INTRODUCTION TO RADIOGRAPHY I

Foothill College Course Outline of Record

Foothill College Course Outline of Record
Heading Value
Effective Term: Fall 2026
Units: 3
Hours: 2 lecture, 3 laboratory per week (60 total per quarter)
Degree & Credit Status: Degree-Applicable Credit Course
Foothill GE: Non-GE
Transferable: CSU
Grade Type: Letter Grade Only
Repeatability: Not Repeatable

Student Learning Outcomes

  • Identify four basic components in the x-ray tubehead by drawing the diagram, and explaining the movement of the electrons and mechanisms to produce a photon

Description

This course provides the basic knowledge and practical skills in dental radiology. Students will learn how to expose, critique, and evaluate dental radiographs taken on a mannequin. The lecture focuses on key areas such as radiation physics, biological effects of radiation, and professional responsibility. Strong emphasis is on radiation safety protocols. In the laboratory, students will gain hands-on experience and demonstrate proficiency in taking intraoral dental images while adhering to ALARA safety standards. Intended for students in the Dental Assisting Program; enrollment is limited to students accepted in the program.

Course Objectives

The student will be able to:

Dental Assisting Theory and Practice

  1. Identify components of the x-ray tubehead and their functions in photon production.
  2. Demonstrate proper sensor placement and positioning for bitewing and full mouth surveys.

Infection Control and Hazardous Waste Management

  1. Apply infection control protocols in dental radiographic procedures.

Radiation Health and Safety

  1. Identify the biological effects of radiation on cells, tissues, and organs.

 Ethical and Legal Principles

  1. Describe how the ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) rule helps determine radiographic exposure frequency.

Course Content

Dental Assisting Theory and Practice

  1. Components of the Coolidge x-ray tubehead and their functions in photon production
    1. Cathode
    2. Electron cloud
    3. Tungsten filament
    4. Anode
    5. Focal spot
    6. Copper stem
  2. Intraoral techniques used for bitewing and full mouth radiography
    1. XCP
    2. Sensor placement
    3. Periapical vs. bitewing
    4. Mounting and anatomical information

Infection Control and Hazardous Waste Management

  1. Cross contamination prevention in the dental radiology operatory
    1. Chemical surface disinfection
    2. Autoclave sterilization
    3. Armamentarium
    4. Plastic barriers
    5. PPE

Radiation Health and Safety

  1. Protective factors in dental radiology
    1. Thyroid collar
    2. Lead apron
    3. Aluminum filters
    4. Collimator
    5. Direct digital sensors
  2. Biological effects on cells, tissues, and organs
    1. DNA chromosome
    2. Reproductive organs
    3. Thyroid gland
    4. Eyes
    5. Bone marrow

Ethical and Legal Principles

  1. Use ethical principles in dental radiology
    1. ALARA rule
    2. ADA/FDA guidelines
    3. Number of retakes

Lab Content

Dental Assisting Theory and Practice

  1. Exposure of bitewing and full-mouth survey on a dental mannequin
    1. Parallel technique
    2. Utilization of intraoral XCP holders
    3. Receptor placement in the oral cavity
    4. Exposure dosages
    5. Image capture of dentition

Infection Control and Hazardous Waste Management

  1. Unit disinfection
  2. PPE
  3. Intermediate level disinfectant surface wipes
  4. Autoclave
  5. Sensors
  6. Barriers

Special Facilities and/or Equipment

1. Gowns, safety glasses, mask, gloves, face shields.
2. X-ray laboratory, including dental training mannequins, image receptors, computers with dental software, autoclave.
3. Intermediate-level disinfectants.
4. When taught as a hybrid section, on-going access to computer with email software and hardware; email address.

Method(s) of Evaluation

Methods of Evaluation may include but are not limited to the following:

Written multiple choice quizzes, visual slide quizzes, and a comprehensive final exam
Analyzing skills are applied to determine diagnostic radiographic images
Analysis of dental images are studied for technical errors

Method(s) of Instruction

Methods of Instruction may include but are not limited to the following:

Lectures
Demonstrations
Lab observation
Cooperative learning exercises

Representative Text(s) and Other Materials

Iannucci and Howerton. Dental Radiography, 6th ed.. 2022.

Yamamoto, J.  Radiology Policy and Information Manual.

Yamamoto, J. D A 53A Lab Syllabus.

Types and/or Examples of Required Reading, Writing, and Outside of Class Assignments

  1. Given five comments from patients who are fearful of x-rays, students will prepare an empathetic and factual response.
  2. Assigned lab readings will be from the lab syllabus and the radiology policy manual.
  3. An example of a writing assignment: List the steps and state the rationale involved in taking a FMS. Include proper infection control protocols and radiation safety concerns for retakes.

Discipline(s)

Dental Technology