The legislation surrounding the registration of all X-ray machines for dental applications is bringing the measurement of radiation back into focus. Where previously only a notification requirement existed for devices under 100 kV, these now need to be registered.
For this category of equipment, it is desirable to be able to perform a reliable measurement of kVp, dose, and related parameters within a very short time. Important here are the guidelines provided by the manufacturer of the X-ray machine in question. This information can be found in the service documentation.
In addition to a reliable and high-quality measurement, it is also desirable that it can be carried out in the shortest possible time. Here are some things that contribute to an efficient and reliable check of the X-ray system.
The RaySafe ThinX Intra is a small and handy device that you can easily carry with you when performing maintenance. The device fits easily into a breast pocket. When the X-ray machine is set to the correct values, place the RaySafe ThinX Intra in the light field. The meter activates fully automatically upon detection of radiation. It is always on standby for the measurement. As soon as you have taken the exposure, the measured values of the RaySafe ThinX Intra can be read directly. Measuring with the RaySafe ThinX Intra in practice comes down to: place the meter, radiate, and read.
In addition to the RaySafe ThinX, there is also the RaySafe X2. With this, you can check the dental panoramic X-ray systems. There are two sensors of the RaySafe X2 that are suitable for this application: the R/F sensor and the DENT sensor. In terms of design, the sensors are very similar. The difference lies in the measuring range. The DENT sensor measures from 40 to 130 kVp and the R/F sensor measures from 40 to 150 kVp. The “trigger level” also differs for dose rate measurements. The R/F sensor triggers at 50 nGy/s and the DENT sensor at 1 µGy/s. The DENT sensor is a derivative of the R/F sensor and more focused on dental applications.
A holder has been developed to use the sensors panoramically. Both the DENT and the R/F sensor are made for use in this practical tool for OPG systems.
By using a piece of light-sensitive film, you can determine the center of the beam. With the help of the sliding dimension on the panoramic holder, you can adjust the position of the sensor to this. In this way, you can reliably and practically measure radiation from dental panoramic systems.
Is it also necessary to measure leakage radiation? Then use the Survey sensor with the RaySafe X2. There is also a possibility to measure mAs.
