Common Problems in Dental Film Processing and Development

Problem	Causes
Light Radiographs	(i) Processing errors  Under development (temperature too low, time too short)   Depleted developer solution   Excessive fixation  ii)  Under Exposure  Insufficient milliamperaqe   Insufficient kVp   Insufficient time   Film source distance too great   Film packet reversed in mouth
Dark Radiographs	i) Processing errors Over development (temperature too high, time too long)  Accidental exposure to light  Improper safe lighting  Developer concentration too high  ii) Over exposure  Excessive milliamperage   Excessive kVp   Excessive time   Film source distance too short
Insufficient Contrast	Under development  Under exposure  Excessive kVp  Excessive film fog
Film Fog	Improper safe lighting  Light leaks  Over development  Contaminated solutions  Deteriorated film

Problem	Causes
Dark Spots or Lines	Film contaminated with developer before processing  Film in contact with tank or another film during fixation  Static discharge to film before processing (dark lines with tree like image)  Excessive roller pressure during processing  Finger print contamination  Excessive bending of film
Light Spots	Film contaminated with fixer before processing  Film in contact with tank or another film during development  Excessive bending of film
Yellow or Brown Stains	Depleted developer  Depleted fixer  Insufficient washing  Contaminated solutions
Blurring	Movement of patient  Movement of X-ray tube head  Double exposure
Partial Images	Top of film not immersed in developing solution  Misalignment of X-ray tube head (cone cut)
Emulsion Peel	Abrasion of image during processing  Excessive time in wash water