Radiation protection in dentistry - Do we practice what we learn?

Abstract

Aim: Easy availability, overuse, and lack of reinforcement of the radiation hazards facts have unknowingly resulted in overlooking of as low as reasonably achievable (ALARA) among many dentists. The current survey was designed to assess the awareness, concern, and practice of radiation protection in general dental practice. Materials and Methods:The survey involved 156 dentists in West Bengal, India. A cross-sectional self-administered questionnaire consisting of a total of 28 items was employed. The obtained data were compiled systemically and significance of difference was calculated by Chi-squared test using Statistical Package for Social Sciences 17. Results: Bisecting angle technique and use of E-speed films with manual processing were the most common. The majority of the participants had no idea about the type of cone used (37.2%), tube current (37.8%), kVp 56.4% (88). Exposure time was equally variable with maximum variability in the case of digital radiographs. Use of lead barriers and aprons were poor. Conclusion:The knowledge and practice of radiation protection are not satisfactory. Repeated reinforcement and training and the most importantly change in attitude to follow ALARA is required.

Validación y aplicación de un instrumento para medir el conocimiento sobre radioprotección en alumnos de posgrado

“…Es defi ciente la aprobación que se obtuvo con respecto a la información de Kv y mA con que operan los equipos radiológicos en Perú, sólo un 30,93% respondió de manera correcta sobre el Kv y un 31,96% sobre el mA. Esto coincide con el poco conocimiento de este ítem en otros países como India, donde Pal et al, al encuestar a 156 dentistas vieron que un 82.3% no sabía el valor de Kv en que operaban los equipos imagenológicos dentales (16). Esto puede explicarse por el hecho de que los equipos periapicales actualmente vienen con los valores de Kv y mA ya programados y fi jos, evitando así que el operador manipule estos factores.…”

The road to radiation safety and ALARA: A review

“…13 In another study by Sumona Pal et al got the result as the protective measures were not satisfactory and they reinforced the use of ALARA principle. 14 In another review article by GD Crane namely -Radiation shielding in dentistry: an update, warrens the use of different protective shields in the radiology department during the procedures to ensure maximum safety to the patients. 15 In different studies all authors are of the view that radiation dose and exposure should be reduced to the patient and dental personnel and radiation protection to be implemented effectively in diagnostic radiography.…”