Observance of radiation protection principles in Iranian dental schools

Objective. In recent decades many guidelines has been conducted by radiation protection organizations about radiation protection in dentistry. This study aims to evaluate the observance of these guidelines in educational clinics of all dental schools in Iran. Material and methods. In this cross-sectional study a self-administered questionnaire based on National Radiation Protection Board (NRPB) and European Commission guidelines was conducted. The radiology departments of all dental school (18 schools) surveyed in this study. The questionnaire was consisted of 3 sections including intraoral radiography, extraoral radiography and implementation of quality control programs. Results. In the case of the existence of radiation protection facilities (such as lead apron, thyroid shield and lead impacted walls), use of high speed films and existence of automatic processor in dental schools there was a proper condition. The main problem was related to lake of regular quality control and quality assurance programs. Digital radiography systems were employed in none of schools and only used occasionally in research purposes at some of them.Conclusions. This study emphasizes on the need for further consideration of radiation protection principles in dental school, especially on the field of quality control and quality assurance programs.