DANB Radiation Health and Safety (RHS) Practice Exam

The pedodontic film survey should include which consideration?

1. Smaller film size

2. Shorter exposure times

3. Slightly steeper vertical angulation

4. All of the above

The correct answer is: All of the above

The pedodontic film survey should indeed include all of the listed considerations to ensure optimal imaging and patient care for children. When working with pediatric patients, a smaller film size is beneficial as it accommodates the smaller mouths of children and helps in achieving a better fit for the dental arch. This is essential for obtaining clear, diagnostic images without causing discomfort to the patient. Shorter exposure times are also necessary. Children are often less cooperative than adults during dental procedures and may have difficulty remaining still for an extended period. Reducing exposure time minimizes the risk of motion blur in the images while also lessening the radiation exposure for young patients, which is an important safety consideration. Lastly, a slightly steeper vertical angulation can improve the quality of radiographic images in pediatric patients by better aligning the X-ray beam with the anatomical structures. This adjustment can help capture better detail in areas that may be more difficult to image accurately due to the patient's developmental stage and the smaller size of their teeth. Incorporating all these considerations – from film size to exposure time and angulation – showcases a tailored approach to pediatric dentistry, ensuring both effective imaging and patient safety.