Minimizing Radiation in Dental Radiography

Running head: DENTAL RADIOGRAPHIC IMAGE 1
DENTAL RADIOGRAPHIC IMAGE 1
Name of the Student:
Name of the University:
Author note:

1DENTAL RADIOGRAPHIC IMAGE 1
Q1) List at least ten measures that can be taken to minimise radiation for patients, operators
and others?
Measures to be considered to minimise the radiation for patients, operators and others
are as follows (Arpansa.gov.au, 2019):
 Unnecessary people should not be allowed in the radiation room before exposure.
 The patient and the operator must wear a protective apron before undergoing any
kind of exposure. The apron should be made up of lead with thickness of 0.5mm.
 Specifically designed Lead-infused thyroid collar should be used by the patient to
protect the thyroid gland from excessive radiation.
 In order to cover the reproductive organ of the patient Lead-infused leather or vinyl
aprons should be used.
 The aprons should be checked regularly for any tear or cracks to minimise the chance
of any risk.
 Excluding the patient and the operator, any third person in the room must stand
behind a protective barrier.
 The apron should be stored and hung properly as any creases in the apron will
generate a crack.
 The apron, gloves or any other items used in the radiation room must be removed in
that specific room.
 Fast image receptors must be used for reducing the exposure level.
 The patient must use proper immobilization method.

2DENTAL RADIOGRAPHIC IMAGE 1
Q2) List and describe at least five patient requirements that should be considered when taking
a dental radiograph.
The requirement of the patient to be considered when taking a dental radiograph are
explained as follows (Humanhealth.iaea.org 2019):
I. Age of the patient: Dental radiography is done for people of all ages including
youngsters, adult and elder people. The sensitization level of the radiograph is
different for different age of people, as the intensity of X-ray used for adults cannot be
used for adolescent.
II. The current oral health problem: The doctor should have a clear idea of the patient’s
problem so that the doctor can decide which type of radiography technique has to be
used.
III. Symptoms of Oral problem: This is the most important factor to be considered before
taking up the dental radiography. The doctor should know exactly what kind of oral
disease is the patient suffering.
IV. History of gum or oral diseases: If the patient is suffering from any particular history
of gum disease then the treatment approach will be different for such patients.
V. Safety measures of the patient: Proper safety measures should be explained to the
patient before the patient takes up the dental radiograph.
Q3) Explain, using your own words how you would position an x-ray film to take a periapical
x-ray of maxillary molars. Include in your answer a suggested film size, and what your x-ray
will show. Once the x-ray has been taken, what steps do you take to label and mount the
film?
X-ray film is placed over the palate. Initiate the process by dorsally placing the palate
to the target teeth. Place the tube at 45-degree angle to the face. The X-ray film is positioned