1. Radiation Protection

2. 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

3. 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

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. Lead Aprons/Thyroid Collars With Thyroid Collar Attached No Thyroid Collar

7. Thyroid Collar

8. 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.

9. 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

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

11. 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

12. Rinn XCP – Helps reduce “retakes”

13. 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