[Somatic radiation load by radiography of the temporomandibular joint]

660 exposures were performed on an Alderson phantom to determine the somatic radiation exposure values for standard examinations of the temporomandibular joint. Comparative examinations with the classic contact technique according to Parma served to make clear the results obtained. The lowest amount of surface exposure was observed in contact examinations of the temporomandibular joint. The use of a flat tube leads to a 13-fold reduction in surface exposure compared to contact examinations according to Parma. Furthermore, a heavy gradient of radiation exposure from the area of exposure to the environment was stated in using a tube (flat tube and ear tube).