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24 May 2012

Answer to Question #4038 Submitted to "Ask the Experts"

Category: Radiation Workers

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

What are the criteria for implementing a dosimetry program for dental health care workers? That is, does a dental assistant/hygienist/dentist who takes dental radiographs need to have a dosimeter? Would the fact that the process is digital, and thus less dosage, make any difference? Does the setting, private practice versus hospital, make any difference?

The recommended dose limit for occupational exposure to radiation is 50 milligray (5 rem) per year. Current data indicate that dental workers' occupational doses rarely exceed 1 milligray per year. Thus, personal dose monitors are not required. There is one major exception, the pregnant worker. The dose limit for the fetus is much lower and could be exceeded under certain circumstances. Personal monitors are recommended for pregnant workers.

Digital versus film radiography makes little difference. Some digital systems require doses similar to the fastest available films.

The setting makes no difference. The workload (number of exposures per week) possibly could.

This issue is discussed in detail in Report 145 from the National Council of Radiation Protection and Measurements, titled "Radiation Protection in Dentistry." It is available from the NCRP website.

S. Julian Gibbs, DDS, PhD

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