Almost two years ago, I started seeing patients in a brand-new office. This was a big switch for me, since I had previously been treating my patients at the same office for many years—which means working with the same software, systems, and radiology technology.
However, the change brought a new handheld unit and sensor. Let’s just say my radiographs were definitely not up to par. I would regularly have cone cuts on the images or have a tricky time placing the new sensor exactly where I wanted it without the patient moving it out of the way with their tongue.
After all these years teaching future dental hygienists how to take radiographs, I had to get used to the unique characteristics of the new machines. But, if you understand the theories behind taking a proper radiograph and know what you’re aiming to see, you’ll get the hang of your new space. Give yourself some grace, be open to support from other team members, and you’ll soon be taking grade A radiographs again.
A few things to remember as you take your images
-
Lineup the tube head or handheld unit with the teeth and not the ring of XCP. Use the XCP as a guide, not a law. You can help it. Use the holder for support to prevent cone cuts but make sure you’re always having that tube head and teeth parallel to prevent horizontal angulation issues.
-
Place the sensor as close to where you want him before the patient bites down. Sometimes if we have the sensor not on the tooth when the patient bites, the tongue will move it out of the way. However, if you have it placed exactly where you want it and the holder is touching your target tooth, the sensor won’t move as much when the patient closes.
-
Don’t be shy to go slow to ensure you’re in the proper area and alignment. It’s better time wise to take a few extra seconds the first time you’re taking images then having to take a retake later on. Plus, this allows for less radiation for the patient.
To review the proper placement of a premolar bitewing, check out this Hygiene Edge video.
About the Author
Melia Lewis, MEd, RDH
Melia Lewis, MEd, RDH, is a dedicated clinical dental hygiene professional with a passion for advancing oral health education and patient care. She practices at Aspen Heights Dental in Highland, Utah, and is an adjunct professor at Colorado Northwestern Community College. She is cofounder of Hygiene Edge, an online education platform full of helpful tips to make dental professionals' lives easier, and she owns and operates Acuti Sharpening, a dental hygiene instrument sharpening company. Contact her at [email protected] or on Instagram @hygieneedge and @meliardh.