Radiation Shielding

Although the American Dental Association (ADA) has updated its recommendations for radiation shielding, New York State law requires the use of lead radiation shielding for patients. This has not changed and is not subject to ADA recommendations. The New York State law is quoted below.

New York State Education Law:

§ 6611. Special provisions.

7.  Any dentist or dental hygienist, who in the performance of dental services, x-rays the mouth or teeth of a patient shall during the performance of such x-rays shield the torso and thyroid area of such patient including but not limited to the gonads and other reproductive organs with a lead apron thyroid collar, or other similar protective garment or device. Notwithstanding the provisions of this subdivision, if in the dentist's professional judgment the use of a thyroid collar would be inappropriate under the circumstances, because of the nature of the patient, the type of x-ray being taken, or other factors, the dentist or dental hygienist need not shield the thyroid area.