Film techniques (The finger technique)

The finger technique involves the patient holding the film intraorally while it is exposed, this simplifies the process, gives the patient more control of the situation, may be more comfortable for the patient. On the other hand it is less reproducible, more chance for error as we are relying on the patient positioning the film, expose their hand to radiation and can have some infection control risks with the saliva on their hand.

-Use the hand that is opposite the side of the arch you are exposing.
- index finger for upper posteriors, thumb for anteriors and lower posteriors
-They should be applying just enough pressure to hold it in place
-Lower posteriors are difficult but you place the film first, then YOU apply downward pressure while they provide pressure against the tooth. This should be enough to hold it in place while you expose the film
-A hemostat can be useful on the occlusal aspect of the film to give them a platform to press onto