We are an office who has always prided ourselves in staying up to date on the latest technologies, procedures, products, and guidelines-so that we can share this knowledge with our patients.
Our new guideline concerns the use of lead aprons and thyroid collars when taking dental x-rays. It comes from the American Dental Association (2024) which states that "Lead aprons and thyroid collars are no longer recommended for routine dental x-rays because digital imaging and rectangular collimation already minimize radiation exposure."
Lead aprons were historically used to protect patients from scatter radiation when dental x-ray does were higher and beam control was limited. Current evidence shows that modern digital systems deliver very low radiation, and shielding often interferes with image quality or necessitates retakes.
Special Populations including Pregnancy
Fetal exposure from dental imaging is extremely low-shielding does not significantly reduce does radiation risk. In addition, for patients with radiation treatment history, we will continue to customize radiographs for our patients, depending on their specific dental history, risk, and health status, following the ALARA (As Low as Reasonably Achievable) principle.
As always we will continue to provide customized and appropriate use of x-rays and our lead aprons and collars will still be available to our patients who request them— including those who like the cozy gravity blanket feel! :)
Written by our hygienist Sue with special thanks to Naomi for modeling our radiograph safety
