Which of the following is a common cause of film fog?

Film fog is a phenomenon that affects the quality of dental radiographs, leading to unclear or cloudy images that hinder accurate diagnosis. One common cause of film fog is improper film storage. When films are not stored correctly, they may be exposed to excess heat, moisture, or radiation. These conditions can cause the emulsion on the film to deteriorate or react in unintended ways, resulting in fogging.

Storing films in a cool, dry environment, away from direct light and radiation sources, is essential to prevent fogging and maintain the quality of the diagnostic images. Understanding the importance of proper film storage helps dental assistants ensure that they obtain clear and reliable radiographic results. Other factors, such as using fresh chemicals and employing appropriate processing techniques, play vital roles in preventing film fog, but they do not directly relate to the physical storage conditions of the films themselves.