Dose area product reference levels in dental panoramic radiology.

The purpose of this study was to measure DAP (Dose Area Product) values in panoramic radiology with the use of a DAP meter, to determine corresponding reference levels, and to compare DAP between panoramic and intraoral radiology. DAP was measured in 62 panoramic X-ray units for 3 types of exposure (male, female and child) and in 20 intraoral X-ray units of 50, 60 and 70 kVp. DAP reference levels were 117 mGy cm2, 97 mGy cm2 and 77 mGy cm2 for exposure of a male, female and child respectively. Results showed that DAP from a panoramic dental examination is approximately twice that from a single intraoral examination. DAP meter is a very convenient and easy to use tool for patient dosimetry and for the establishment of reference levels in dental panoramic radiology.