Which practice should be avoided to ensure safe dental radiography?

Allowing untrained personnel to operate dental radiography equipment poses significant risks to both patient and operator safety. Only individuals who have received proper training and certification should handle radiographic equipment. This is crucial because operating such equipment requires an understanding of the technical aspects, safety protocols, and the potential health effects of radiation exposure. Untrained personnel may not be aware of how to correctly position patients, adjust settings, or respond to emergencies, increasing the likelihood of errors that could result in unnecessary radiation exposure or ineffective imaging.

In contrast, using proper shielding, following regulatory standards, and regularly maintaining equipment are all practices that enhance safety in dental radiography. These methods help ensure that radiation is minimized, equipment is functioning correctly, and that all procedures are compliant with established safety regulations, further protecting the health of both patients and staff.