Receptor
In dental radiology, the image-capturing device—whether film, photostimulable phosphor plate, or solid-state sensor—used to record the radiographic image.
Full Definition
The term 'receptor' is the preferred contemporary term for any dental radiographic image-capture medium, replacing the older, film-centric term 'film.' Receptors are classified as film (F-speed, E-speed), photostimulable phosphor plates (PSP, also called storage phosphor plates), or direct digital sensors (CCD or CMOS-based). Editors should note that using 'film' generically when a digital sensor or PSP was actually used is a technical inaccuracy in modern radiology documentation. The receptor type affects dose, resolution, and processing workflow, so its correct identification in methods sections of research papers is editorially significant. The term should not be confused with 'receptor' as used in pharmacology or biochemistry.
Usage
Usage note: Avoid defaulting to 'film' in descriptions of digital radiographic systems; use 'receptor' and specify the type on first mention.
In Context
- "All periapical radiographs were acquired using size-2 solid-state digital receptors (CMOS-based) at a standardised exposure setting." — Clinical research methods section
- "The author used 'film' throughout the manuscript despite describing a digital workflow; the editor replaced all instances with the appropriate term 'receptor.'" — Manuscript revision note