What effect does using a faster film speed have on radiation dose to the patient?

Using a faster film speed decreases the radiation dose to the patient. Fast film or digital sensors are more sensitive to radiation, allowing them to capture images with less exposure time. This sensitivity means that less radiation is needed to produce a diagnostic-quality image, which ultimately reduces the amount of radiation the patient receives during the imaging process.

In dental radiography, for instance, utilizing faster film or digital receptors translates into a more efficient imaging process, where the same diagnostic information can be acquired with lower radiation exposure. Thus, the choice of faster film speed is a vital factor in minimizing radiation risk to patients while still ensuring adequate image quality for diagnostic purposes.