The Comprehensive X-Ray Program Certificate Program is one of the courses offered under the iEducations Dental Assistant Training Center.
It is essential for all RDA Applicants to obtain a license. This program offers comprehensive x-ray certification training, encompassing various exposure techniques. Participants will undergo both classroom and clinical instruction on x-ray safety, film exposure using traditional and digital methods, as well as training in endodontic, bisecting, and parallel techniques. Additionally, the course covers film processing and critique.
Course Learning Objectives:
- Understand the properties of radiation.
- Explain the biological effects of radiant exposure.
- Identify the components of a dental x-ray unit and explain the functions of each component.
- Describe the safety precautions to be utilized when using radiation.
- Explain how an x-ray is produced.
- Explain bisecting and paralleling techniques.
- Identify means of producing quality radiographs on a variety of patients.
- Identify normal and abnormal radiographic landmarks.
- Identify different imaging systems used for dental purposes.
Course Agenda:
Module 1: Introduction to Dental Radiography
- Overview of dental radiography
- Historical perspective
- Importance of radiation safety in dental practice
- Regulatory framework in California
Module 2: Fundamentals of Radiation Physics
- Properties of radiation
- Types of radiation
- Units of measurement
- Interaction of radiation with matter
Module 3: Dental Radiographic Equipment
- Types of dental x-ray machines
- Components and functions
- Radiation collimation and filtration
- Safety features and regulations
Module 4: Patient Management and Positioning
- Patient assessment and history
- Techniques for minimizing patient exposure
- Positioning devices and techniques
- Proper alignment for intraoral and extraoral radiographs
Module 5: Radiation Protection and Safety Measures
- Principles of radiation protection
- ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) concept
- Personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Radiation monitoring and dosimetry
Module 6: Image Formation and Quality
- Factors influencing image quality
- Film-based and digital imaging systems
- Image receptors and processing techniques
- Evaluation of radiographic quality and diagnostic criteria
Module 7: Radiographic Techniques and Procedures
- Intraoral radiography techniques
- Extraoral radiography techniques
- Bisecting angle and paralleling techniques
- Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) overview
Module 8: Infection Control in Radiography
- Sterilization and disinfection protocols
- Barrier techniques and aseptic procedures
- Handling and disposal of radiographic materials
- Cross-contamination prevention measures
Module 9: Legal and Ethical Considerations
- Regulatory compliance and licensure requirements
- Informed consent and patient communication
- Ethical dilemmas in dental radiography
- Documentation and record-keeping standards
Module 10: Practical Training and Assessment
- Hands-on practice sessions
- Clinical simulations and case studies
- Competency evaluations and assessments
- Feedback and performance improvement strategies
Module 11: Final Examination and Certification
- Comprehensive written examination
- Practical skills assessment
- Awarding of California Dental Radiation Safety Course certification
- All supplies and materials
- Notification to The California Dental Board upon successful completion of the Radiation Safety Certification Course
- Student will take 2 exams:
- Exam will be to complete 2 FMXs on mannequin
- Exam will be to complete 1 FMX on a patient*
- Student will bring one patient* to class at a time designated by the instructor to complete the final exam FMX. Patient must speak English.
Enrollment Prerequisites:
- Certification:
- 8-Hour Infection Control Certification
- In the state of California, a Dental Assistant must have their California Radiation Safety (X-Ray) certificate to be permitted to take x-rays in a dental office. In addition, all applicants for Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) licensure must submit evidence of having completed an approved Radiation Safety course.
- Experience (at least one of the below requirements must be met):
- A minimum of six (6) months experience in dental assisting in the United States. Documentation required from dental office where work experience was acquired. This documentation must include:
- Date of employment or experience
- Documentation must be written on office letterhead that includes the office address and phone number
- Documentation must be signed and dated by supervising dentist
- Employment and experience will be verified.
2. Be a graduate of a dental assisting program
3. Be currently enrolled in a dental assistant program
Tuition for the 32-hour course is $600. Space is limited. First come, first served.
Upon completion of this course, the student will be issued a California Dental Association Certificate.
iEDUCATIONS IS A CALIFORNIA DENTAL BOARD-APPROVED COURSE PROVIDER THAT CERTIFIES STUDENTS IN X-RAY PROGRAM.