[Radiation protection in intra-oral dental radiography]

At the time being, all dental X-ray apparatuses in the German Democratic Republic are inspected step by step on the basis of the regulations in force. An essential objective of these measures consists in ensuring that the X-ray apparatuses used comply with the standards for radiation hygiene. In this regard, the present situation is still unsatisfactory. A considerable reduction of the radiation exposure to the patients and the operating personnel, however, may be achieved easily, using simple means. An example is the restriction of the useful beam, as to which practical advice is given. Furthermore, recommendations are presented for the proper operation and for the determination of the control area required by the radiological protection regulation.