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ABSTRACT
Introduction: Dental radiography is an essential tool in Pediatric Dentistry, allowing detailed evaluation of dental and bone structures, monitoring of craniofacial growth, and planning of preventive and curative treatments. In children, these exams are indicated for early detection of alterations, monitoring tooth eruption, and identifying carious lesions or pathologies not clinically visible. However, due to greater pediatric radiosensitivity and longer life expectancy, strict radiation protection practices based on the ALARA principle (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) are necessary, aiming to keep radiation doses as low as possible without compromising diagnostic quality. Objectives: This study aimed to gather and analyze recent scientific evidence regarding radiographic exposure in Pediatric Dentistry, emphasizing risks, radiation doses, and radiation protection practices based on the ALARA principle, in order to guide safe and effective clinical practice in pediatric patients. Methodology: This is an integrative literature review conducted in the MEDLINE/PubMed, BVS, and SciELO databases, using the descriptors “pediatric dental radiography,” “radiographic exposure,” “radiation protection,” “ALARA,” and “radiation dose.” The selection followed the PICO strategy, including publications from 2021 to 2025 that directly addressed radiological protection protocols in children. Data were analyzed qualitatively, considering the methodological heterogeneity of the studies. Conclusion: The results indicate that, although most doses are within international limits, variations in protocols and gaps in clinical practice remain. Technologies such as digital sensors, rectangular collimation, additional filters, and age-specific protocols are effective in reducing doses by up to 70% without compromising diagnostic quality. Consistent application of the ALARA principle, combined with professional training and protocol standardization, is essential to ensure radiological safety in Pediatric Dentistry and establish evidence-based clinical practice.
Keywords: Pediatric Dentistry; Radiation Protection; ALARA; Radiation Exposure; Dental Radiography.
References
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Copyright (c) 2025 Lucilene Rodrigues da Silva, Any Caroline Alves Saraiva, Cristina Mel Evangelista Lima, Tânia Regina Carvalho de Sá, Maria Clara Oliveira e Silva, Milena Fé Arrais Guida, Letícia Wistler Mendes de Oliveira Martins, Sanmyo Martins Oliveira
