IRMER Radiation Physics and Biology
Course Description

Introduction
This course offers a comprehensive review of the principles of radiation physics and biology, focusing on the use of X-rays in dentistry. It covers the production of X-rays, their interaction with tissues, and the biological effects of ionising radiation. Dental professionals will learn to apply these principles safely and effectively in line with UK regulations.

Electromagnetic Radiation
X-rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation. This section explains the characteristics of X-rays, their high frequency, and ionising potential. It covers how X-rays interact with matter to produce diagnostic images and the safety precautions necessary to minimise exposure.

Soft and Hard X-rays
This section covers the differences between soft (low-energy) and hard (high-energy) X-rays, explaining their respective uses and risks in dental radiography. Learn how to balance X-ray energy to produce optimal images while minimising patient exposure.

How X-rays Are Produced
Understand the process of X-ray production in dental equipment. This section explains the function of the X-ray tube, how electrons are accelerated towards the anode, and the creation of X-rays through Bremsstrahlung and characteristic radiation.

Tube Shielding and Collimation
Proper shielding and collimation are essential for protecting patients and staff from unnecessary radiation. This section discusses the role of lead shielding in the X-ray tube and the use of collimators to focus the X-ray beam on the target area.

X-ray Beam Filtering
Learn how aluminium filters are used to remove low-energy X-rays that contribute to patient dose without improving image quality. This section explains how beam filtering enhances the safety and quality of dental radiographs.

Bremsstrahlung and Characteristic X-rays
This section looks into the physics of X-ray production, focusing on Bremsstrahlung radiation generated when electrons decelerate near atomic nuclei and characteristic X-rays produced when electrons are displaced from their orbits.

Collimation
Collimation restricts the size and shape of the X-ray beam to limit radiation exposure. This section discusses the importance of collimators in dental X-ray equipment, including the benefits of rectangular collimation for reducing patient dose.

Radiation Units and Doses
Understanding radiation units like the Grey (Gy) and Sievert (Sv) is essential for measuring radiation exposure and assessing biological risk. This section covers how absorbed doses and effective doses are calculated and the comparative radiation levels of dental procedures.

Exposure Factors
This section explains how kilovoltage, milliamperage, exposure time, and distance affect image quality and radiation dose. Learn to adjust these factors to ensure diagnostic radiographs with minimal exposure to patients.

Ionising Radiation and Free Radicals
Ionising radiation generates free radicals, which can damage DNA and increase cancer risk. This section looks at the mechanisms by which free radicals form and the biological effects of ionising radiation on human tissues.

Interaction of Radiation with Tissues
This section covers the ways in which X-rays interact with tissues, including classical scattering, the Compton effect, and the photoelectric effect. Understanding these interactions is very important for optimising image quality while minimising harm.

Biological Effects of Free Radicals
Free radicals produced by ionising radiation can lead to cell damage and cancer. This section focuses on the biological effects of radiation, particularly its impact on rapidly dividing cells and the body’s natural defences against radiation damage.

Types of Radiation Injury
Learn about acute radiation sickness, cancer risk, and genetic damage caused by ionising radiation. This section outlines the thresholds for different types of radiation injuries and the specific risks associated with dental radiography.

Course Completion
Participants will complete a feedback survey, take a multiple-choice exam, and receive a GDC-compliant CPD certificate. The course ensures a deep understanding of radiation physics, biology, and safety practices in dental radiography.