Patient Protection
What is the purpose of the thyroid collar?
What is to Protect the patients Thyroid
How far should you stand from the x-ray beam
At least 6 feet away from the x-ray beam.
What does ALARA stand for?
What is As Low As Reasonably Achievable
Who sets the rules for radiation safety?
Federal and state regulatory agencies (like FDA and state radiation boards)
Who is responsible for determining which dental radiographs a patient needs
The dentist or authorized dental professional.
Why should we use a film/sensor holder instead of letting the patient hold the x-ray
What is stability and accuracy, less exposure to patient
What is the safest angle to stand at during exposure?
At a 90–135° angle to the beam.
Give one example of how ALARA is used in dental radiography
using lead apron and thyroid collar, adjusting exposure settings, limiting retakes, using fast film or digital sensors.
Why should exposure charts be posted near the x-ray machine
To guide proper exposure settings and minimize unnecessary radiatio
Why should radiographs only be prescribed when necessary
To minimize unnecessary radiation exposure to the patient.
Name one way to reduce the patient’s exposure time
what is using faster film/digital sensors, rectangular collimation, correct exposure settings, or avoiding retakes
True or False – It’s safe to hold the film in the patient’s mouth if they can’t.
What is False
Who does ALARA protect—patient, operator, or both
Both
What is one long-term effect of unnecessary radiation exposure?
Increased risk of cancer or genetic damage over time
Name one factor that affects how often a patient needs radiographs
Patient’s age, dental history, risk of disease, or current oral health status.
What is the main reason we use rectangular collimation instead of round collimation
It reduces the size of the x-ray beam and minimizes patient radiation exposure
Name one personal protective device operators can use besides standing away from the beam
Operator Apron
How does using digital sensors instead of traditional film help follow ALARA?
Digital sensors require less radiation to produce an image, lowering patient and operator exposure.
How often should x-ray equipment be inspected or calibrated for safety
According to state or federal regulations, typically annually or as required by law
What guideline helps dentists decide which x-rays to prescribe?
ADA (American Dental Association) and FDA radiographic selection guidelines.
Why is it important to check a patient’s medical and dental history before taking radiographs?
To identify any conditions, sensitivities, or previous radiation exposure that could affect safety or technique.
hy should operators avoid holding the x-ray tube or sensor during exposure
To prevent unnecessary radiation exposure to themselves; always use positioning devices and barriers.
What role does proper technique play in following ALARA
Correct positioning and exposure reduce retakes, minimizing radiation exposure
What should you do if you notice a malfunction or safety concern with the x-ray machine
Stop using it immediately, report it to the supervisor or radiation safety officer, and document the issue.
Why is it important to document the rationale for each prescribed radiograph?
For legal, ethical, and professional accountability, and to ensure the patient’s radiation exposure is justified.