Answer to Question #15488 Submitted to "Ask the Experts"
Category: Medical and Dental Patient Issues — Worker Issues
The following question was answered by an expert in the appropriate field:
What are the typical scatter radiation dose levels experienced by operators using handheld portable dental x-ray devices? What should be used to measure the scatter radiation?
When operating handheld portable dental x-ray devices, operators typically encounter low scatter radiation doses, particularly when adhering to standard protective measures. Without protective measures, the scatter radiation doses to various parts of the operator's body, such as the hands and eyes, range from approximately 0.47 to 0.78 µGy microgray). With the implementation of protective measures, such as scatter shields and lead gloves, these doses can be effectively reduced to levels between 0.12 and 0.25 µGy. On an annual basis, the occupational exposure is generally less than 0.6 mSv per year, which is significantly below the dose limit of 1 mSv per year for members of the general public.
Thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLDs) are employed due to their high sensitivity and broad measurement range, making them particularly suitable for assessing scatter radiation levels in radiology. For measurements pertaining to handheld portable dental x-ray devices, TLDs should have a sensitivity range from 0.01 mGy to 10 Gy. This range ensures accurate detection and quantification of the relatively low scatter radiation doses encountered in this context, facilitating effective monitoring and safety management.
I hope this helps!
Srinitha Singanamala, BDS, MPH
Oral and Maxillofacial Radiologist