Journal of Dentistry

Refining Dental Imaging Safety Protocols: A Commentary on Current Recommendations, Gaps, and Practical Concerns

Articles in Press

Document Type : Short Communication

Authors

Salma Tabatabaei 1
Shahram Hamedani 2

1 Dept. of Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology, School of Dentistry, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.

2 Oral and Dental Disease Research Center, School of Dentistry, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.

10.30476/dentjods.2026.108621.2829
Abstract
This commentary critically examines recent dental radiation safety recommendations, highlighting overlooked practical and ethical concerns. Key issues include the controversial removal of routine thyroid shielding, insufficient adaptation for low-resource settings, and restrictive guidance on cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) use. The shift from ALARA to ALADA, while well-intentioned, may inadvertently permit excessive imaging in the absence of clearly defined diagnostic thresholds and audit mechanisms. Additionally, the lack of prioritization and manufacturer-specific dose data hampers clinical implementation. Emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), which have demonstrated potential for dose optimization, quality assurance, and decision support in dental imaging, remain underrepresented in current guidelines. The article advocates for more balanced, adaptable, and forward-looking safety protocols in oral and maxillofacial radiology.

Keywords

Dental Radiation safety
Imaging protocols
CBCT guidelines
Journal of Dentistry

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 23 February 2026

  • Receive Date 06 September 2025
  • Revise Date 31 December 2025
  • Accept Date 21 February 2026
  • First Publish Date 23 February 2026
  • Publish Date 23 February 2026

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