Which of the following is an effect of inappropriately increasing the radiation dose?

Inappropriately increasing the radiation dose primarily leads to an increased risk of radiation exposure to the patient. This is a critical concept in dental radiation safety, as it underscores the importance of adhering to established guidelines for radiation use.

When the radiation dose is escalated without justification, it can heighten the likelihood of harmful effects, such as radiation burns or increased risk of cancer over a patient’s lifetime. This situation highlights the need for practitioners to balance the benefits of achieving clear diagnostic images against the potential risks associated with excessive radiation exposure.

In dental practices, the objective is to use the minimum effective dose that still allows for sufficient image quality, thus maintaining patient safety as a priority. Understanding the consequences of increasing radiation doses reinforces the commitment to protecting patients while achieving necessary diagnostic outcomes.