What does the term 'collimation' refer to in dental radiology?

Collimation in dental radiology refers specifically to the process of reducing the size of the X-ray beam. This is an important aspect of radiographic techniques, as it helps to target the area of interest while minimizing exposure to surrounding tissues. By restricting the size of the X-ray beam, collimation reduces the amount of scatter radiation, which can lead to better image quality and lower radiation doses to the patient.

This practice not only enhances patient safety by limiting their exposure to unnecessary radiation but also helps improve the clarity of the radiographic image by reducing fog and scatter. Proper collimation techniques result in images that provide the necessary diagnostic information without compromising patient safety.