Radiation Protection

Patient Protection

X-radiation causes biologic changes in living cells

Minimize the amount of radiation received by the patient, using proper protection techniques

Use before, during, after exposure

BEFORE Prescribing dental radiographs Always review the health history of a patient

prior to exposing x-rays. Dentist uses professional judgment re:

Number Type Frequency Each patient’s condition is different

During Exposure – Lead Apron The Lead Apron – a

flexible shield placed over the patient’s chest and lap to protect reproductive and blood-forming tissues from scatter radiation.

During Exposure – The Thyroid Collar

Protects the radiosensitive thyroid gland Flexible lead shield placed around patient’s neck Used with all intraoral films Not used with extra oral films because it obscures

information on film May exist as a separate shield, or be part of the

larger lead apron.

Lead Aprons/Thyroid Collars

With Thyroid Collar Attached No Thyroid Collar

Thyroid Collar

Lead Apron Storage

When not in use, lead aprons should be hung for storage.

They should never be folded because this could lead to cracks in the lead, decreasing the protection to the patient.

During Exposure

Fast Film The most effective method of reducing

patient’s exposure to x-radiation. The faster the film, the less radiation required

to expose it. F-speed is fastest available today

20% less exposure than E-speed film 60% less exposure than D-speed film

Film Packet

The x-ray film packet also contains a lead backing to help reduce scatter radiation

During Exposure

Film-Holding Devices Helps to stabilize film position in mouth Reduces chances of movement of film Eliminate need for patient to hold film in place

Rinn XCP – Helps reduce “retakes”

After Exposure

Proper Film Handling Careful handling during the period from exposure

to processing Avoid artifacts (scratches, etc) that will result in

nondiagnostic films Proper Film Processing

Use fresh solutions and proper methods Avoid retakes