James R Geist1, Jerald O Katz. 1. Department of Diagnostic Sciences, University of Detroit Mercy, School of Dentistry, Michigan 48219, USA. geistjr@udmercy.edu
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this investigation was to describe the extent to which dental schools use materials, equipment, and quality-assurance protocols that reduce radiation exposure to patients. STUDY DESIGN: Questionnaires soliciting information regarding intraoral and extraoral radiographic practices and quality-assurance procedures were sent to the directors of oral and maxillofacial radiology (OMR) at the 65 schools of dentistry in the United States and Canada. RESULTS: The response rate was 100%. E-speed film is used at 86% of institutions. Direct digital radiography is used at 58% of institutions for intraoral imaging and 11% for extraoral radiography. Other dose-reducing techniques include long source-film distances (88%), rectangular beam limitation (47%), leaded aprons (95% for extraoral films; 85% with thyroid collars for intraoral films), and rare earth intensifying screens (100%). The most commonly used tube potential is 70 kVp (88%). The director of OMR is solely responsible for radiographic policies at approximately 75% of institutions. Regular tests for film fog, speed, and contrast are done at roughly 75% of schools, while over 90% test darkroom lighting and x-ray equipment. CONCLUSIONS: Some dose-reducing strategies are commonly used in dental schools, while others have not gained wide acceptance.
OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this investigation was to describe the extent to which dental schools use materials, equipment, and quality-assurance protocols that reduce radiation exposure to patients. STUDY DESIGN: Questionnaires soliciting information regarding intraoral and extraoral radiographic practices and quality-assurance procedures were sent to the directors of oral and maxillofacial radiology (OMR) at the 65 schools of dentistry in the United States and Canada. RESULTS: The response rate was 100%. E-speed film is used at 86% of institutions. Direct digital radiography is used at 58% of institutions for intraoral imaging and 11% for extraoral radiography. Other dose-reducing techniques include long source-film distances (88%), rectangular beam limitation (47%), leaded aprons (95% for extraoral films; 85% with thyroid collars for intraoral films), and rare earth intensifying screens (100%). The most commonly used tube potential is 70 kVp (88%). The director of OMR is solely responsible for radiographic policies at approximately 75% of institutions. Regular tests for film fog, speed, and contrast are done at roughly 75% of schools, while over 90% test darkroom lighting and x-ray equipment. CONCLUSIONS: Some dose-reducing strategies are commonly used in dental schools, while others have not gained wide acceptance.
Authors: Tricia Murielly Pereira Andrade de Souza; Ricardo Dias de Castro; Laís César de Vasconcelos; Andréa Dos Anjos Pontual; Flávia Maria de Moraes Ramos Perez; Maria Luiza Dos Anjos Pontual Journal: Clin Oral Investig Date: 2016-03-16 Impact factor: 3.573
Authors: Lienard A Chang; Donald L Miller; Choonsik Lee; Dunstana R Melo; Daphnée Villoing; Vladimir Drozdovitch; Isabelle Thierry-Chef; Sarah J Winters; Michael Labrake; Charles F Myers; Hyeyeun Lim; Cari M Kitahara; Martha S Linet; Steven L Simon Journal: Health Phys Date: 2017-12 Impact factor: 1.316