IRMER Radiological Optimisation
Course Description

The ALARP Principle
The ALARP (As Low As Reasonably Practicable) principle is fundamental to radiological optimisation. This section covers how dental professionals can ensure patient X-ray exposures are kept to a minimum while still obtaining high-quality diagnostic images. It focuses on balancing patient safety with diagnostic needs.

Radiological Justification
Every radiograph must be justified by demonstrating that the benefits outweigh the risks. This section covers how to evaluate the necessity of X-rays based on clinical examinations and the patient's condition, ensuring compliance with UK regulations.

The X-ray Set
Understanding the function and optimisation of X-ray sets is key to radiological optimisation. This section details the proper use of kilovoltage, filtration, and collimation, ensuring that X-ray machines are set to deliver the lowest possible dose while achieving diagnostic results.

Panoramic (OPG) Sets
Panoramic radiographs require specific optimisation techniques. This section explains how to adjust kilovoltage for different patient sizes, use positioning devices, and limit the exposure field for effective panoramic imaging with minimal radiation.

Radiographic Sensors and Films
Digital sensors and fast films play a key role in reducing patient radiation exposure. This section compares sensor types, such as PSP plates and CCD sensors, and looks at how to select the most appropriate option for different types of radiographs.

Intensifying Screens
Intensifying screens reduce radiation exposure by converting X-ray photons into visible light. This section explains how to maintain and optimise intensifying screens to ensure accurate and low-dose imaging in extra-oral radiographs.

Digital Sensors
Digital sensors offer faster, lower-dose imaging compared to traditional film. This section covers the advantages and disadvantages of using digital sensors, including maintenance, wear and tear, and image processing.

Operator Technique
Even with well-maintained equipment, operator technique plays a very important role in radiological optimisation. This section discusses common errors, such as incorrect dose selection and positioning, and provides tips for improving operator performance to minimise radiation dose.

Tube Distance
Proper tube distance is essential for minimising magnification and ensuring the correct X-ray dose reaches the sensor. This section explains how small deviations in distance can affect image quality and radiation exposure.

Blurring
Blurring in radiographs is often caused by patient movement or equipment instability. This section covers techniques to prevent blurring, including patient positioning and ensuring the X-ray tube remains stable during exposure.

Horizontal Tube Angulation
Incorrect horizontal angulation can lead to overlapping contact points on intraoral radiographs. This section discusses how to correctly angle the X-ray tube to avoid crossover and improve image clarity.

Vertical Tube Angulation
Vertical angulation errors can affect bitewing and periapical radiographs, leading to distorted images. This section focuses on ensuring proper vertical tube angulation to obtain clear, accurate radiographs.

Other Technique Errors
This section covers additional common errors, such as back-to-front film placement, incorrect exposure settings, and superimposed objects like metal-based dentures or nose studs, and how to avoid these mistakes.

Course Completion
Participants will complete a feedback survey, take a multiple-choice exam, and receive a GDC-compliant CPD certificate. This course ensures that dental professionals are equipped with the skills to optimise radiographic techniques and reduce patient exposure.