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Radiation exposures around a panoramic dental x-ray unit
J A Reid1, J C MacDonald, T A Dekker
1Division of Oral Radiology and Oral Medicine, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, Canada.
Oral Surgery, Oral Medicine, and Oral Pathology
|June 1, 1993
Summary
This study assessed radiation exposure near panoramic x-ray units. Results show minimal radiation levels (1 mGy over 7 months), indicating no need for special shielding barriers around the equipment.
Area of Science:
- Radiological Sciences
- Medical Physics
- Dental Imaging
Background:
- Panoramic x-ray units are widely used in dental diagnostics.
- Assessing radiation exposure is crucial for patient and staff safety.
- Understanding environmental radiation hazards informs safety protocols.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify the radiation hazard in the vicinity of a panoramic x-ray unit.
- To determine if environmental shielding is necessary for these devices.
Main Methods:
- Ektaspeed periapical films were utilized as dosimeters.
- Films were positioned behind and to the side of the panoramic x-ray unit.
- Exposure was monitored over a 7-month period with 1414 examinations performed.
Main Results:
- The maximum radiation exposure measured was approximately 1 mGy over 7 months at 80 cm from the patient.
- This exposure level was recorded under a heavy workload scenario.
- The measured dose indicates a low level of environmental radiation.
Conclusions:
- No specialized environmental shielding barriers are required for panoramic x-ray units.
- The radiation levels are considered safe for the surrounding environment.
- Standard safety practices are sufficient for managing radiation exposure from these units.