Understanding radiation exposure in the dental practice

What every dentist needs to know

Radiographs are an essential tool in modern dentistry, enabling dentists to diagnose conditions in a non-invasive, pain-free manner. However, the use of radiation in dental practices raises important questions about safety. Understanding the basics of ionising radiation, how it is used in dental practices, and the potential risks, is crucial for both dental professionals and their patients.

Basic principles of radiation in dental practices

Radiation is a form of energy that moves from one place to another in the form of waves or particles. In dental practices, x-rays, a type of electromagnetic radiation or high-energy photons, are used to create images of the teeth and surrounding structures. When x-rays pass through the body, they are absorbed at different rates by different tissues, creating a detailed image that helps dentists identify issues not visible during a standard examination.

Dental radiographs are invaluable for detecting cavities, assessing overall oral health, planning dental implants, and evaluating the progress of certain treatments. Despite these benefits, it's essential to use radiation cautiously to minimise exposure and potential risks.

Radiation regulations ensure that appropriate safety measures are in place to safeguard patients, workers, and the public from excessive radiation exposure.

The invisible risk of dental x-rays

While dental radiographs produce low levels of radiation, it's important to recognise the potential risks. Although short-term effects are minimal due to the low doses used, long-term exposure can cause cellular damage that may increase the risk of cancer over a lifetime. Understanding that these risks are cumulative underscores the importance of minimising exposure and taking proper precautions to ensure safety.

Stay compliant, stay safe

Authorities have put strict legislation in place to ensure that appropriate safety measures are implemented, thereby safeguarding patients, workers, and the public from excessive radiation exposure. For example, as a dental practice that owns and operates x-ray equipment in NSW, it's critical to abide by the legal requirements outlined in the Radiation Control Act 1990 No 13 and the NSW Environment Protection Authority's Radiation Standard 6: Part 3 - Dentistry. 

One of the key requirements is that dental practices located in NSW have their x-ray apparatuses compliance tested and certified after their installation, before use on patients, and subsequently every 5 years thereafter. This periodic testing is vital because, over time, x-ray equipment can deteriorate, suffer inadvertent damage, or develop internal faults from extensive usage. These issues can lead to inconsistencies in radiation output, higher leakage levels, or other potential threats.

In NSW, compliance certification is required after device installation and subsequently every 5 years, as well as after a device had a tubehead replacement, or has been relocated.

Ensuring that x-ray equipment is regularly inspected and certified helps protect patients and staff from unnecessary radiation exposure. It is the responsibility of the equipment owner to ensure that certification does not lapse, as the NSW EPA will not send renewal reminders.

In addition to post-installation certification and regular five-year checks, x-ray apparatuses also need compliance testing and certification following a tubehead replacement or device relocation.

You might also find these related blog posts helpful:

Your Ultimate Guide to X-Ray Compliance Certification

Navigating Compliance: The Importance of Your EPA Radiation Licence

Protect your patients, team and the public 

If you are part of a dental practice, you know all too well that dental radiographs are a vital component of comprehensive dental care. Understanding the basics of radiation, the potential risks, and the importance of compliance with safety regulations can help dental professionals make informed decisions about the use and maintenance of their radiographic equipment. 

By adhering to local regulations, dental professionals can ensure the safety and well-being of their patients and team while still reaping the undeniable benefits of this essential diagnostic tool. It also ensures you avoid hefty penalties and fines for non-compliance.

Gamma Tech can assist with compliance certification and ensuring your equipment meets safety standards. For more information about your obligations as owner of radiographic equipment, contact us today.

We’re here to help your practice stay safe and compliant.