Evaluation of X-ray Protection Methods Used in Dental Offices in Tabriz in 2005-2006

Background and aims. The aim of this study was to evaluate x-ray protection methods in dental offices in Tabriz. Materials and methods. In this study 142 dental offices were evaluated. A questionnaire-based method was used. The data was analyzed by descriptive methods. Results. The least commonly used methods were leaded walls (4.9%) and film badges (16.9%) and the most commonly used methods were lead partitions (67.6%) and position-distance rule (68.3%). The most commonly used patient protection devices were E-speed films (84.5%) and long collimators (66.2%). The least commonly used methods, in this respect, were automatic processors (2.1%) and rectangular collimators (0%). Conclusion. Regarding protection methods for the patient, results did not conform to international standards. Mostly, manual processing was used, resulting in extra radiation dose to patients. The methods which reduce the received dose of patients were disregarded in offices compared to educational centers, necessitating optimization of educational programs in these fields.