Answer to Question #1226 Submitted to "Ask the Experts"

The following question was answered by an expert in the appropriate field:

I work as a dentist five-and-a-half days a week and take approximately six bitewings and periapicals a day and on average one OPG a day. What would the risk be to the fetus if pregnant? The small x rays are taken through an ordinary door approximately two meters away from beam and the OPG is taken around half a door (not lead lined).

From this small workload, risk to the embryo/fetus should be negligible. Available data indicate that the average occupational dose to dental personnel is about 1-2 mSv per year, well below the recommended limit for pregnant personnel. I would expect that your occupational dose should be too small to measure. However, personnel monitoring is prudent during pregnancy. It is inexpensive peace of mind. Several commercial services are available.

S. Julian Gibbs, DDS, PhD

Answer posted on November 8, 2001. The information and material posted on this Web site is intended as general reference information only. Specific facts and circumstances may alter the concepts and applications of materials and information described herein. The information provided is not a substitute for professional advice and should not be relied upon in the absence of such professional advice specific to whatever facts and circumstances are presented in any given situation. Answers are correct at the time they are posted on the Web site. Be advised that over time, some requirements could change, new data could be made available, or Internet links could change. For answers that have been posted for several months or longer, please check the current status of the posted information prior to using the responses for specific applications.