What is the purpose of using a lead collar in dental radiography?

What is the purpose of using a lead collar in dental radiography?

• A. To enhance image quality
• B. To protect the thyroid gland from radiation exposure
• C. To reduce patient discomfort
• D. To stabilize the patient’s head

Answer: (B)

The purpose of using a lead collar in dental radiography is to protect the thyroid gland from radiation exposure. The thyroid gland is particularly sensitive to radiation, and any unnecessary exposure to ionizing radiation could potentially increase the risk of thyroid cancer or other radiation-related disorders. By placing a lead collar around the neck during dental x-rays, practitioners can effectively absorb and deflect scatter radiation, ensuring that the sensitive tissues of the thyroid are shielded from direct exposure. Using a lead collar demonstrates a commitment to patient safety and adherence to the principles of radiation protection, which include justification, optimization, and limitation of exposure. The lead collar serves an essential role in minimizing the risks associated with diagnostic imaging while still allowing for necessary evaluations and interventions to be carried out effectively.

The purpose of using a lead collar in dental radiography is to protect the thyroid gland from radiation exposure. The thyroid gland is particularly sensitive to radiation, and any unnecessary exposure to ionizing radiation could potentially increase the risk of thyroid cancer or other radiation-related disorders. By placing a lead collar around the neck during dental x-rays, practitioners can effectively absorb and deflect scatter radiation, ensuring that the sensitive tissues of the thyroid are shielded from direct exposure.

Using a lead collar demonstrates a commitment to patient safety and adherence to the principles of radiation protection, which include justification, optimization, and limitation of exposure. The lead collar serves an essential role in minimizing the risks associated with diagnostic imaging while still allowing for necessary evaluations and interventions to be carried out effectively.