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08 February 2012

Answer to Question #1034 Submitted to "Ask the Experts"

Category: Radiation Workers

The following question was answered by an expert in the appropriate field:

I am a dental hygienist and work with x rays every day. I just found out I am eight weeks pregnant. I am concerned about the effects this may have on my baby. Do you have any information for me?

The U. S. National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements (NCRP) has recommended a limit of 0.5 mSv per month of occupational dose for pregnant radiation workers, including those in dental offices. This compares with 50 mSv per year occupational dose limit for nonpregnant workers. However, the average occupational dose for dental workers in the United States in 1980 was 0.2 mSv per year. It is probably a similar value today. So it is unlikely that you will exceed the limit for pregnant workers. If you are concerned, personnel monitors are available which will measure your dose. The cost is modest. It is inexpensive peace of mind. For more information see the draft report "Radiation Protection in Dentistry" now posted for comment on the NCRP website.

Julian S. Gibbs, DDS, PhD

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