CERTIFICATE IN DENTAL RADIOGRAPHY

The RoC provides evidence that a dental nurse is able to safely take and handle dental radiographs under the prescription of a dentist, in line with IR(ME)R regulations and radiation safety protocols. It consists of three key components:

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• Practical Competence Assessment Sheets (PCAS):

These assess the candidate’s ability to perform a range of intra-oral and extra-oral radiographic procedures in a clinical setting. Each task must be completed under supervision and signed off by a qualified witness.  

The PCAS are designed to show competence in the taking of dental radiographs.  They should provide evidence of your involvement in the taking of a minimum of 50 radiographs that must include at least:

• 10 x dental panoramic radiographs

• 10 x pairs of bitewing radiographs

• 20 x paralleling technique periapical radiographs​​​​​​​

• 10 x types of other radiographs which must include:

• 2 x bisecting angle technique periapicals

• 2 x occlusal views (can be undertaken on a dry skull)

• 2 x cephalometric lateral skull views (can be undertaken by simulation)

• 4 x any ‘other’ type of radiograph

Guidance for the completion of the PCAS is provided and each case must be completed with both the dental nurse and the qualified witness present. The witness must provide feedback on the radiograph taken and ensure that the learner has given the correct quality rating. The setting should normally be within your own place of work but may be elsewhere if appropriate to the particular technique; however, you must still gain hands on practical involvement.

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• Case Studies:

Candidates are required to submit written case studies based on real patient scenarios. These demonstrate the nurse’s understanding of radiographic techniques, clinical decision-making, and the ability to adapt imaging approaches based on patient needs. 

You must choose three patients for the production of detailed case studies, including:

• 1 x dental panoramic radiograph

• 1 x bitewing radiograph

• 1 x paralleling technique periapical radiograph

The patients may already be included in the PCAS, but the case study must meet set criteria and you must follow the guidelines. The case studies will demonstrate evidence of further reading and reflective practice.

Each case study must be no less than 1000 and no more than 1500 words.

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• Supplementary Outcomes:

The content of the supplementary outcomes will be reviewed regularly by NEBDN but currently include:

• Oblique lateral  mandible radiographs

• Bisected angle periapical radiographs

• Lateral cephalometric radiographs

• A copy of the dental practice Local Rules

• Two incidences of reflective practice (one to be completed at the start of the programme)

• A record of continuing professional development relating to dental radiography e.g. background reading, meetings, courses etc.

 

To enable the Learner to move forward to the NEBDN summative examination, Learners must sit the mock test and pass. Pass mark is 75%.