1.       Equipment and supplies

a.       Dental X ray machines

                                                                           i.      Should have annual tests to moniter the following: 

1.       Machine output variations

2.       Inadequate collimation

3.       Tube head drift

4.       Timing errors

5.       Inadequate KVP or MA readings

Machine tests can be done by who?

who is ultimately responsible

1.       Dentist

2.       Dental Hygienist

3.       Assistant

4.       Service rep

The Dentist

Quality control tests

a.       Dental X Ray Film

                                                                           i.      Test each box of film for freshness when its opened.

                                                                         ii.      Fresh film – Appears clear with a slight blue tint (properly stored)

                                                                        iii.      Fogged film – has been expired or improperly stored

                                                                           i.      Clean monthly with antistatic solution– (check for dirt or scratches)

                                                                         ii.      Examine for, adequate screen to film contact, light leaks, worn closures and warping (leads to fogging)

1.       Adequate contact – uniform density = good film screen contact

2.       Inadequate contact – densities appear darker in some areas then in others = poor film screen contact.

Quality control

Viewing equipment

                                                                           i.      Replace lights, screen if dirty or discolored.

                                                                         ii.      Clean daily

Quality control

1.       Film processing

a.       Dark room lighting

                                                                           i.      Check for safeness every 6 months – check for light leaks

                                                                         ii.      Do coin test – leave coin out in dark on film if there is no coin image when developed the dark room is safe from light.

Quality control

a.       Processing equipment

                                                                           i.      Check temperature, solution levels and freshness.

a.       Processing solutions

                                                                           i.      Change every 3-4 weeks