Discovery of X-Radiation in Dentistry

Pioneers/Discovery of X-Radiation in Dentistry

In 1895, Professor Wilhelm C. Roentgen, a German physicist, was working with a cathode ray tube, much like our fluorescent light bulb. The tube consisted of positive and negative electrodes encapsulated in a glass envelope. On November 8, 1895, Roentgen was conducting experiments in his lab on the effects of cathode rays. He evacuated all the air from the tube and passed a high electric voltage through it after filling it with a special gas. When he did this, the tube began to give off a fluorescent glow. Roentgen then shielded the tube with heavy black paper and discovered a green colored fluorescent light could be seen coming from a screen located a few feet away from the tube.

He had produced an unknown ray being emitted from the tube that could pass through the paper. He found that this new ray would pass through most objects, casting shadows of solid substances. He first investigated with his hand and was surprised when he saw his bones. His discovery would open up an exciting field for doctors because now it was possible to stu...