What do intensifying screens in radiography consist of?

Intensifying screens are a crucial component in radiography that enhance the effectiveness of x-ray films by converting the x-ray energy into visible light. The correct choice describes these screens as consisting of fluorescent phosphors embedded in a plastic matrix. This combination allows the screens to emit light when exposed to x-rays, which in turn exposes the film. The use of fluorescent phosphors is particularly vital because they efficiently convert the energy from x-rays into visible light, thus reducing the overall radiation dose needed for imaging, while still producing high-quality images.

The inclusion of a plastic matrix serves to support and protect the phosphor material, ensuring that it remains intact and functional throughout its use while maintaining flexibility that can easily fit within imaging systems. This technology plays a significant role in improving both the safety for patients and the quality of images produced during dental radiography.