What Happens if You Take an X-Ray Without a Lead Apron?

Imaging equipment such as X-rays, CT scans, and C-arms plays a crucial role in diagnosing and treating various medical conditions. However, without proper safety precautions, these tools can pose risks. Even small doses of radiation can accumulate over time, making effective shielding vital during imaging procedures to protect both patients and healthcare professionals. 

Lead aprons have been a cornerstone of X-ray safety for decades because they offer reliable protection against scatter radiation. While guidelines for their use have evolved in certain settings, like dental offices, their importance in medical and radiology procedures remains critical. 

If you’re wondering what happens when X-rays are taken without proper shielding, we’ll review all the information you need to know and explain why protective measures should never be overlooked.

Are Lead Aprons Still Necessary for Dental X-Rays?

In dental settings, advancements in X-ray technology have sparked debates about the necessity of lead aprons. Modern dental X-ray machines emit significantly lower doses of radiation than older systems, prompting updated recommendations from organizations like the ADA (American Dental Association). 

The ADA’s X-ray shielding guidelines in 2024 state that aprons may not always be necessary for routine dental X-rays when machines are properly calibrated and protocols followed.

However, concerns remain. Patients may worry, and you may see concerned posts saying, “My X-ray tech did not shield me,” especially if they’re unaware of these advancements. Therefore,  keeping patients updated on safety guidelines and steps you’re taking to protect them is important. 

Additionally, wearing no lead apron for dental X-rays doesn’t mean there isn’t any protection. Advanced shielding methods, such as built-in barriers or best practices like staying a safe distance away from machines, may still be used to protect patients and staff. 

Lead Aprons Are Still Necessary in Medical Facilities

Despite these updates in dental settings, lead aprons remain crucial, and a standardized shielding procedure in medical settings, where radiation doses are higher and scatter radiation poses greater risks. 

Therefore, medical teams should still use them in X-rays and interventional procedures where C-arms or fluoroscopy are used. It’s especially important for medical staff members who may be exposed to radiation throughout the day. 

What Can Happen if You’re Exposed to X-Rays?

Since shielding with lead aprons is still necessary in medical settings, you may wonder, “What happens if you get an X-ray without protection?”

In general, a single unshielded X-ray would likely result in minimal exposure. However, it’s always best to ensure protection during every medical procedure to minimize any potential risks. 

The biggest danger is cumulative radiation exposure. For instance, if a patient were to get multiple unshielded X-rays. Or, more common, if medical professionals conducting regular X-rays or using other imaging equipment that emits radiation aren’t shielded with personal protective equipment (PPE) like lead aprons. 

The American Cancer Society states that cumulative radiation exposure increases the risk of developing cancer. Studies also show that it can lead to damage in critical organs like the thyroid and gonads and serious tissue damage on the skin. 

Does Radiation Bounce Off Lead?

Lead does not allow radiation to bounce off in a literal sense. Instead, it absorbs and attenuates radiation. Studies, such as one from the Journal of Clinical Orthopedics and Trauma in 2018, state that this is due to its high atomic number and density. 

Due to lead's high density, it effectively blocks X-rays and gamma rays by slowing them down and absorbing their energy. When radiation passes through a lead apron, the photons are either absorbed or scattered at a much lower energy level, preventing them from penetrating the body. 

Are Lead Aprons Dangerous?

Lead aprons aren’t dangerous when used properly. The lead inside is encased in durable, non-toxic materials, preventing direct exposure. 

However, improper handling, such as folding or damaging the apron’s surface, can expose users to small amounts of lead. Regular inspection and adherence to safety guidelines mitigate these risks, ensuring the aprons remain safe and effective.

We can help with lead apron inspection at Radiological Care Services (RCS). When you partner with us, we help you track apron inventories with our RADCOMPLY™ software and ensure aprons are inspected visually and through X-rays at regular intervals. 

Lead Shield X-Ray Pregnancy

During pregnancy, lead aprons are crucial in protecting both the wearer and the developing fetus from scatter radiation. The apron shields sensitive areas, such as the abdomen, to significantly reduce exposure. This ensures safety while still being able to conduct necessary medical imaging. There are even maternity lead aprons available for this specific use. 

The International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) also states that pregnant medical staff members should take extra precautions with medical imaging devices that emit radiation. The ICRP sets a standard that radiation exposure for pregnant women shouldn’t exceed 1 mSv throughout the duration of the pregnancy. 

What Happens if You Wear Metal in an X-Ray?

Wearing metal during an X-ray can interfere with the imaging process and create artifacts—areas on the image that appear distorted or unclear. 

For patients with implanted devices, such as pacemakers or surgical screws, technicians will take extra precautions to adjust imaging techniques accordingly. 

Protect Your Team with RCS’s Comprehensive Lead Apron Services

At Radiological Care Services (RCS), we understand the critical role lead aprons play in ensuring safety during X-ray procedures. From regular inspections to professional cleaning and maintenance, we help healthcare facilities maintain compliance with X-ray and interventional shielding guidelines while prioritizing the well-being of their staff and patients.

Plus, when you partner with us, we’ll make the process easy and help you stay on top of things each step of the way with our RADCOMPLY™ inventory management software. 

Contact us today to learn more about how we can support you with expert lead apron services.