Ace the 2026 DANB RHS Challenge – Radiate Confidence in Your Dental Journey!

Using a rectangular collimator is a primary method for minimizing radiation exposure to patients during dental X-rays. A rectangular collimator helps to limit the size and shape of the X-ray beam to the area that needs to be imaged. This specificity not only reduces the amount of tissue irradiated but also decreases the overall radiation dose received by the patient.

In contrast, while the other methods can contribute to reducing exposure, they may not be as effective in limiting the beam. For example, increasing distance from the X-ray source does help reduce exposure due to the inverse square law, but is not always practical in the dental setting where the equipment is fixed in place. Using high-speed film can reduce exposure time, but it doesn't directly affect the amount of radiation produced by the X-ray machine. Reducing the time of exposure is beneficial; however, if the X-ray technique is not managed with collocation, it can result in suboptimal images requiring retakes, which subsequently increases exposure. Therefore, the rectangular collimator stands out as a critical tool specifically designed to control the X-ray beam more effectively, enhancing patient safety.