Why No Lead Apron or Thyroid Collar Anymore?" and "Addressing Patient’s Concerns

"Why No Lead Apron or Thyroid Collar Anymore": This course reviews the current recommendations and rationale behind eliminating routine gonadal and thyroid shielding during dental diagnostic imaging. Attendees will explore the biological basis for shielding guidelines, examine how advances in imaging technology have reduced patient radiation dose, and learn where patient shielding introduces problems. Methods of dose reduction that are currently recommended, including digital sensors and rectangular collimation, will be discussed.

"Addressing Patient’s Concerns about Radiation Dose": This course offers a practical framework for addressing patient concerns about radiation exposure from dental radiographs. Attendees will learn to listen to and validate concerns, explain the clinical rationale for imaging, and describe ALARA/ALADA-based dose-reduction efforts. The course also translates radiation dose into relatable terms, comparing common dental imaging exams to natural background radiation and other familiar exposures, equipping attendees to reassure patients with accurate, simple language.