DANB CDA Radiation Health and Safety

Question 1

What is the ALARA principle in dental radiography?

Accepted Answer

As Low As Reasonably Achievable — minimizing radiation exposure

Answer

ALARA stands for As Low As Reasonably Achievable, a guiding principle requiring that radiation exposure be kept as minimal as possible while still obtaining diagnostic-quality images.

Question 2

What is the maximum permissible dose (MPD) of radiation for occupationally exposed dental workers per year?

Accepted Answer

50 mSv (5 rem)

Answer

The annual maximum permissible dose for occupationally exposed workers is 50 mSv (5 rem) for the whole body, as established by radiation safety guidelines.

Question 3

Which type of radiation is most harmful to dental patients during radiographic procedures?

Accepted Answer

Scatter radiation

Answer

Scatter radiation, produced when the primary beam interacts with matter (the patient's tissues), is the most significant source of radiation exposure during dental radiography because it travels in all directions.

Question 4

What is the purpose of a lead apron during dental radiography?

Accepted Answer

To protect radiosensitive organs from unnecessary radiation exposure

Answer

Lead aprons shield radiosensitive organs such as the thyroid, gonads, and bone marrow from unnecessary radiation exposure during dental radiographic procedures.

Question 5

What is the recommended position for the dental assistant during X-ray exposure?

Accepted Answer

At least 6 feet away from the source and behind a barrier or at a 90-135 degree angle

Answer

The operator should stand at least 6 feet away from the X-ray source and position themselves at a 90-135 degree angle to the primary beam, or behind a protective barrier.

DANB CDA Test Practice Test

DANB CDA Test Practice Test

DANB CDA Radiation Health and Safety