Which of the following statements about radiation safety is correct?

Radiation exposure in a dental setting must be managed carefully to ensure patient safety. The principle of "As Low As Reasonably Achievable," often abbreviated as ALARA, is fundamental in radiation safety practices. This principle mandates that all radiation exposures should be minimized as much as possible while still obtaining the necessary diagnostic information. Adopting ALARA involves multiple strategies such as using the lowest possible doses, implementing protective measures, and optimizing the technique and equipment used.

By adhering to the ALARA principle, dental professionals can significantly reduce the risk of radiation-induced effects, both immediate and long-term, on their patients. This ensures that while the benefits of imaging procedures are realized, the associated risks are kept to a bare minimum.

In contrast, the other statements do not align with established radiation safety protocols: radiation does have potential effects on dental patients, not all patients require the same radiation dose due to varying needs and conditions, and lead aprons, while effective in reducing exposure to certain areas of the body, are recommended as part of the safety protocols rather than being optional.