Abstract

X-ray radiographs are common practice tools used by dental professionals. Dental radiology uses X-ray technology to address clinical problems and to provide valuable diagnostic information to both doctors and patients. However, the unnecessary exposure of ionizing radiation that is emitted to produce dental radiographs can increase the risk of radiation effects on dental professionals including patients. Therefore, the exposure of radiation should be kept as low as possible. In other words, ALARA principle should be followed.  The International Commission for Radiation Protection (ICRP) provides recommendations and norms on radiation protection to be adopted and implemented by dental professionals. The ICRP also adopts ALARA’s principle. 

It is certain that dental X-ray examinations release low doses with low biological risks. However, on a repetitive basis, low doses will lead to a cumulative high radiation dose on the long run and no basis exists to assume that dental radiology risk is zero. Hence, compliance to radiation protection protocols becomes vital and critical. 

Safety is a national responsibility that encompasses the compliance of radiation protection protocols and adopting standards that enhance an effective and safe workplace for dental professionals. There have been many literature reviews carried out pertaining to dental radiography and radiation protection. However, the aspect of compliance with working regulations was not yet adequately addressed. This systematic review paper attempted to evaluate the degree of compliance of dental professionals to radiation protection protocols. For this study, over 20 questionnaire based cross-sectional studies were utilized based on their titles, abstracts and keywords. In addition, this study will also investigate the relationship between acquired knowledge (experience in dentistry, attendance of educational courses, etc.) and the observed behavior (attitude) of dental professionals towards radiation protection.