What kind of safelight can be used with a pan?

In dental radiography, the choice of safelight is crucial for maintaining the integrity of radiographic films, particularly when developing them in a darkroom. A red safelight is commonly used because it emits light that has a longer wavelength, which is less likely to fog or affect the film prematurely. This characteristic makes the red filter the most suitable option for protecting the sensitive photographic emulsion of the dental radiographic film from exposure to light while still allowing the operator to see what they are doing during the developing process.

Yellow, blue, and green safelights can potentially fog certain films because they may emit wavelengths that are closer to those that can affect the film. Therefore, their use is typically not recommended when working with radiographic films, especially those that are sensitive to light, as they might compromise the quality of the radiographs produced.

The red safelight provides adequate visibility for the operator while ensuring that the film remains unexposed until it is intentionally developed, thereby producing clear and diagnostic images.