In Alberta, Registered Dental Hygienists can take and read dental x-rays.

When taking an x-ray, a lead apron with thyroid collar is always used at Lifetime Smiles Dental Hygiene Clinic.

If a previous dental provider has any radiographs of you, you may ask you for copies of them. Ask us to help you with forwarding your X-rays.

Dental X-ray exams are safe; however, they do require very low levels of radiation exposure, which makes the risk of potentially harmful effects very small. Dental X-ray tools and techniques are designed to limit the body’s exposure to radiation and every precaution is taken to ensure that radiation exposure is As Low As Reasonable Achievable (the ALARA principle).

A leaded apron minimizes exposure to the abdomen and should be used when any dental radiograph is taken. Also, a leaded thyroid collar can protect the thyroid from radiation, and should also be used whenever possible. The use of a leaded thyroid collar is recommended for women of childbearing age, pregnant women and children. (ADA)