Should patients and carers wear lead aprons and personal protective devices during a dental radiographic procedure?
With well designed and optimised equipment and procedures there is no need for routine use of lead aprons for the patient in dental radiology. Lead aprons may provide some protection in the case of the vertex occlusal examination, and may be prudent in the case of vertex occlusal examinations in a patient who is, or may be, pregnant. On the other hand, the use of a lead apron may reassure patients that every effort is being made to ensure their safety, and may reduce the amount of time that needs to be taken to reassure them. Certainly a lead apron should be provided for any patient who requests one. It may also be advisable to consider using them on a cautionary basis where equipment and/or technique have not been verified by a radiation protection specialist, and where they will not otherwise interfere with the examination. Thyroid collars should be used in the few examinations where the thyroid may be in the main beam. Lead aprons should be provided for a person who is required to s
