Under what circumstances should a pregnant patient be exposed to dental radiographs?

A pregnant patient should only be exposed to dental radiographs if absolutely necessary and under proper shielding due to the potential risks that radiation exposure poses to both the mother and the developing fetus. The pregnancy period is critical, especially in the first trimester, when the fetus is most susceptible to the harmful effects of radiation.

This approach emphasizes the importance of minimizing unnecessary radiation exposure. If dental radiographs are deemed essential for diagnosis or treatment planning, protective measures, such as lead aprons or thyroid collars, should always be employed to shield sensitive areas and further reduce any potential risks.

In contrast, other options do not align with the best practices for radiation safety during pregnancy. For example, exposing a pregnant patient to radiographs routinely or upon a doctor's recommendation without assessing necessity overlooks the importance of risk-benefit analysis in medical imaging. Emergency procedures may require more immediate action, but even then, the principles of minimizing radiation exposure should remain a priority.