What type of film speed is recommended to minimize radiation exposure?

• A. Speed D film
• B. Speed E or F film
• C. Standard film
• D. Higher speed film

Answer: (B)

The recommended choice for minimizing radiation exposure is higher speed film, specifically Speed E or F film. This is because higher speed films are more sensitive to radiation, requiring less exposure time to produce a diagnostic image compared to films with lower speed ratings.

In practice, higher speed films can capture an adequate image quality with a lower dose of radiation, making them preferable for patient safety and reducing overall exposure. This principle is crucial in dental radiography and other imaging techniques where minimizing radiation is a priority.

Using films with a speed rating lower than E or F, such as Speed D or standard films, would lead to longer exposure times which inherently increase the radiation dose to the patient. Therefore, the recommendation for using Speed E or F films aligns with contemporary practices aimed at maximizing patient safety while ensuring effective imaging capabilities.