RADIATION HAZARDS FROM THE USE OP DENTAL X-RAY UNITS

It is well known that for many years x-rays have been used in the dental profession as a potent diagnostic tool. Deprived of this means of exploration, the dentist and patient alike would be at a great disadvantage. In spite of the necessity of x-rays in the dental field, little has been done, however, to protect the patient and the dentist from unnecessary exposure. X-rays cannot immediately be felt or seen, and therein lies the hazard attending their use. What cannot be sensed is often ignored, and through unconcern and neglect an exposure resulting in biological impairment or damage may result. It was felt therefore, that the potential hazard occurring during oral roentgenography should be investigated and that the results of the investigation would be of interest to the dental profession. Radiation survey results are shown for six dentists' offices in the San Francisco Bay area