Operator Dose Reduction

Radiographic examinations are typically delegated to qualified (as mandated by state law) auxiliary personnel; dental assistants and dental hygienists. Qualified dental radiation workers are to comply with annual occupational whole-body radiation dose limits (Table 8). Occupational radiation dosimeters should be utilized by radiation workers who may receive an annual dose greater than 1 mSv and pregnant personnel operating x-ray equipment regardless of anticipated occupational exposure .^1,6

Other methods to limit occupational exposure are listed in Table 9. Dental personnel should stand behind a protective barrier that permits observation of the patient during exposure. If a barrier is not present, the clinician should stand at a 6 feet/2 meters distance from the x-ray source and at a position greater than a right angle (90-135° angle) to the primary beam. If a handheld x-ray unit is used for intraoral imaging, the device must be used according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. The parameters of usage include:¹

1. holding the unit at mid-torso height,

2. orienting the ring shield properly,

3. and keeping the position-indicating device (PID) as close to the patient as possible.

4. If the ring shield is not used during exposure, the operator should wear a lead apron.