Chapter 4: Radiation Protection
Learning Objectives
At the end of this module chapter, you will be able to:
4.1
- Define the key terms associated with radiation protection.
- Describe in detail the basics of patient protection before x-ray exposure.
- Discuss the different types of filtration and state the recommended total filtration for dental x-ray machines operating above and below 70 kV.
- Describe the collimator used in dental x-ray machines and state the recommended diameter of the useful beam at the patient’s skin.
4.2
- List six ways to protect the patient from excessive radiation during x-ray exposure.
- Describe the importance of receptor handling and processing after patient exposure to x-radiation.
- Discuss operator protection in terms of adequate distance, shielding, and avoidance of the useful beam.
- Describe personnel and equipment monitoring devices used to detect radiation.
4.3
- Discuss radiation exposure guidelines, including radiation safety legislation, maximum permissible dose (MPD), and the ALARA concept.
- Discuss with the dental patient radiation protection steps used before, during, and after exposure to x-radiation.
