The art and science of dentistry has advanced both in treatment and in technology .Dentist are constantly under the pressure of health issues related to the profession. These can be better called as occupational hazards and these include exposure to infections, allergy, and musculoskeletal problems. The problems are curbed to certain extent by providing protective measures but there are still areas to be taken care off. One such area is dental radiology. All dental radiographs are usually taken within the dental office itself compared to medical system. Radiographs are an inseparable part of dentistry since they are of a great diagnostic value. While taking radiographs scattered radiation are produced which are harmful to humans. These scattered radiation causes genetic mutation. Hence it is important to adopt proper protective measures in a dental office, ensuring a complete protection from these scattered radiation. The principles like ALARA, laid down by apex bodies like AERB has to be followed strictly ensuring a complete protection. Radiographs when taken by following these principles pauses a low risk to the patient and with no or little risk to the dentist or dental auxiliary. Awareness regarding these occupational hazards and implementation of proper protective measures while taking dental radiographs and ethical principles can reduce the occupational hazards. There is also a need for continuing dental education programme regarding the use and principles of radiology among dentist which will enlighten them newer updates.
