Concerns About Kids Wearing Lead Aprons During Dental X-Rays

Concerns Regarding Children Wearing Protective Clothing During Dental X-rays

Hello Dr.
Yang,
My child recently had a cavity in the upper left tooth, and I learned that during the first visit to a pediatric dentist, at least four X-rays are taken from different angles.
I am concerned because my child did not wear a lead apron during the X-ray procedure.
After asking some other mothers, I found that most only had X-rays taken of the affected area and their children wore lead aprons.
My child had six X-rays taken (using a plastic device with a black film that is placed in the mouth to bite down on).
I would like to ask the following questions:
1.
What is the radiation dose for a single X-ray? What is the acceptable daily radiation exposure for a human?
2.
Should I insist that the clinic provide my child with a lead apron for protection during future visits? Is a neck collar also necessary?
3.
Is the radiation dose for pediatric dental X-rays different from that of adult dental X-rays?
Thank you.

Jill, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/05/24

Dr. Yang Jinghua reply Radiology

Dear Jill,
Thank you for your inquiry.
Our living environment has background radiation (approximately 3 millisieverts per year).
Currently, the dental X-ray machine we use delivers a single exposure of about 2.4 microsieverts (0.0024 millisieverts) for a child receiving four exposures, while a full mouth X-ray is approximately 0.1 millisieverts.
Although the dose is not high, the principle for human radiation exposure is to keep it as low as reasonably achievable, meaning we should provide necessary protection and minimize unnecessary exposure.
In fact, regarding the X-ray dose that children receive during dental treatment, the greatest risk is the potential increase in cancer risk to surrounding radiation-sensitive tissues (according to statistical data, the risk from this level of radiation exposure is similar to that of the general population).
The risk to assistants present in the examination room is also comparable to that of the general population.
I recommend discussing the necessity of imaging with your physician before the next examination.
Wishing you peace and joy!
Sincerely,
Dr.
Ching-Hua Yang
Director, Department of Radiology
Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare

Reply Date: 2012/05/24

More Info

When it comes to dental X-rays for children, there are several important considerations regarding radiation exposure and safety measures, such as the use of lead aprons. Your concerns are valid, especially given the increasing awareness of radiation exposure and its potential risks.
1. Radiation Exposure Levels: The amount of radiation exposure from a single dental X-ray is relatively low. For instance, a typical dental X-ray may expose a patient to about 0.005 to 0.01 millisieverts (mSv), while a full mouth series can be around 0.1 mSv. To put this into perspective, the average person is exposed to about 3 mSv of background radiation annually from natural sources. Therefore, the radiation from dental X-rays is minimal compared to everyday exposure.
2. Lead Apron Usage: It is generally recommended that patients, especially children, wear lead aprons during dental X-rays to minimize unnecessary radiation exposure to other parts of the body. Lead aprons are designed to absorb radiation and protect sensitive organs, particularly the thyroid gland, which is located in the neck area. While the radiation from dental X-rays is low, the principle of "as low as reasonably achievable" (ALARA) applies, meaning that all precautions should be taken to reduce exposure as much as possible. Therefore, you should definitely request that your child wears a lead apron during any future dental X-rays.
3. Differences in Radiation Dose: The radiation dose for children is generally lower than that for adults due to their smaller size and the fact that dental X-ray machines can be adjusted to deliver less radiation for pediatric patients. However, the difference in dose is not substantial, and the same safety protocols should be followed for both children and adults. The key is to ensure that the X-ray is necessary for diagnosis and that the lowest possible dose is used.

In summary, while the radiation exposure from dental X-rays is low and generally considered safe, it is prudent to take protective measures such as wearing lead aprons. Always discuss with your child's dentist the necessity of the X-rays and the precautions being taken to ensure your child's safety. If you have any further concerns or if your child requires multiple X-rays, it may be beneficial to consult with a pediatric dentist or a radiologist who specializes in children's dental care. They can provide additional reassurance and information tailored to your child's specific needs.

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