To prevent cross contamination during dental radiographic procedures, the operator should do all of the following.

• A. Wear gloves
• B. Use auto cleavable or disposable image receptor holders
• C. Wear protective eyewear
• D. All of the above

Answer: (D)

Preventing cross-contamination during dental radiography relies on layers of protection to keep saliva, blood, and microbes from moving between patients and between the patient and the clinician. Wearing gloves creates a barrier between contaminated hands and the imaging process, and they should be changed between patients and if they become compromised. Using image receptor holders that are either disposable or autoclavable adds barrier protection or sterilization between patients, so the surfaces contacting saliva or contaminated tissue aren’t reused without cleaning or disposal. Protective eyewear shields the eyes from splatter and droplets, reducing the risk of mucous membrane exposure. Together, these practices address different avenues of contamination and, used in combination, minimize cross-contamination during radiographic procedures.