Abstract
X-ray radiation may induce an ionization of atoms in living tissues. Even though radiography in dental practice belongs to the low-dose area, there must be a written indication for any radiographic exam. Estimates of the stochastic risk after irradiation are based on a model, called the linear non-threshold model, i.e., the risk for cancer development is directly proportional to the radiation dose at population level, and any dose will contribute to an increase in the risk. Sex and age determine the risk since women are more sensitive to radiation than men and children much more sensitive than adults. There are three principles for radiation protection that must be obeyed – justification, optimization, and dose reduction – in connection with any radiographic examination. Cone beam CT-scanning provides the heaviest dose burden to the patient of all radiographic examinations in dentistry, and the number of CBCT units increases every year. Even with a small field-of-view, a CBCT examination is equivalent to approx. four days of background radiation. Therefore, written protocols and evidence-based guidelines must be followed to assure that a CBCT exam benefits the patient. On request, the dentist must answer to the patient’s questions on amount and effect of the radiation dose. Dose received from radiography may then be compared to e.g. the equivalent background dose or to the dose received by air travel.
| Original language | Danish |
|---|---|
| Journal | Aktuel Nordisk Odontologi |
| Volume | 48 |
| Issue | 1 |
| Pages (from-to) | 122-145 |
| Number of pages | 24 |
| ISSN | 1902-3545 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - Jan 2023 |