What protective measures are needed for an oral CT scan?
What protective measures are needed for an oral CT scan?
Cardiovascular computed tomography (CBCT), a cutting-edge tool in modern dental diagnosis and treatment, provides precise three-dimensional images, assisting doctors in performing dental implants, orthodontics, and complex root canal procedures. However, many patients often wonder, "Is this radiation safe?" The answer is: With strict, standardized protective measures, oral CT scans are very safe. Understanding and implementing these protective measures is a shared responsibility between patients and healthcare professionals.
1. Professional Protection, Starting with Wearing "Lead Armor"
Upon entering the oral CT room, patients will be presented with various protective equipment. These protective items, made of special lead rubber, are the first line of defense against scattered radiation.
Lead collar (thyroid collar): This is of paramount importance! The thyroid gland, located in the neck, is a highly radiation-sensitive organ in the human body. Wearing a lead collar effectively protects the thyroid gland from scattered radiation and is a crucial step in oral CT protection.
Lead Apron: A thick lead apron covers your major torso organs, such as your chest and abdomen, protecting key areas like the heart, lungs, liver, spleen, and reproductive system.
Lead Cap: While the head is directly exposed, a lead cap protects the radiation-sensitive pituitary gland and other non-examination areas of the head. It also effectively reduces scattering, providing added peace of mind for patients.
Please ensure that you follow the technician's instructions and wear all provided protective equipment correctly.
II. The Clinic's "Invisible" Protective Shield
In addition to the protective equipment worn by patients, radiation safety in a professional dental clinic is also reflected in the overall design of the equipment room.
Qualified Protective Finishes: The walls, ceilings, and floors of the equipment room are typically inlaid with specialized lead panels or coated with barium sulfate protective paint. These act as an invisible shield, confining radiation within the room and protecting medical staff and patients waiting outside.
Lead Protective Doors and Lead Glass Observation Windows: Thick protective doors and special lead glass windows ensure that radiation does not leak when the door is closed for scanning. The technician can observe the situation inside the room at all times through the lead glass and communicate with you.
III. Doctor-Patient Collaboration: Building a Safety Barrier
Follow Instructions: During the scan, please remain still and follow the technician's instructions (such as biting the positioning plate and closing your eyes). A successful scan on the first try can avoid repeat scans.
Proactively Ask: If you are pregnant or suspect you are pregnant, please inform your doctor before the examination. For children, it is even more important to ensure all protective measures are in place.
Choosing a professional institution means choosing safety. Radiation protection is no small matter. Shandong Qi Te Radiation Protection Engineering Co., Ltd. reminds you that choosing a dental clinic that prioritizes radiation safety is crucial. We not only provide engineering services such as lead sheet protection, lead protective doors, and lead glass windows to numerous professional dental clinics nationwide to ensure a safe and leak-free environment, but we also supply high-quality personal protective equipment such as medical lead gowns, lead collars, lead aprons, and lead hats to ensure the safety of every examination.
We understand that safety is the cornerstone of healthcare. Shandong Qi Te, your trusted radiation protection expert, is committed to creating an absolutely safe and secure diagnosis and treatment environment for both doctors and patients.
