Abstract

Radiation hazards in dentistry, while minimal with proper protocols, pose significant risks to patients and dental professionals if not adequately managed. This document explores the sources of radiation in dental practices, the biological effects of exposure, and the importance of adhering to safety measures. The focus is on understanding radiation types, exposure thresholds, and protective strategies such as shielding, distance, and time management. Emphasis is also placed on regulatory guidelines and advancements in dental radiography that minimize exposure while maintaining diagnostic efficacy. By fostering a culture of safety, dental professionals can ensure patient and practitioner well-being while leveraging the benefits of radiographic technology.

Learning objectives

By the end of the course, attendees should:

• List the biological effects of radiation.
• Choose the appropriate radiographic examination for each diagnostic task to reduce radiation exposure to the patients.
• Identify special population of patients at increased risk from radiation exposure in dentistry.
• Identify tissues and organs within the field of view of dental radiographic examinations that are more sensitive to adverse effects of radiation.
• Perform successful diagnostic intraoral and extraoral radiographic examination with minimal radiation exposure.
• Apply radiation dose reduction techniques during intraoral and extraoral dental radiographic examinations.
• Answer common questions that patients raise in the dental clinics regarding radiation hazards and protection.
• Use appropriate radiation exposure dosimeters to monitor occupational radiation exposure.
• Use appropriate practices and techniques to protect themselves and their coworkers from occupational exposure to x-ray.

Agenda