Based upon the historical indicators, clinical findings, and
previous radiographic surveys, radiographs may be indicated.
Because risk of carcinogenesis or fetal effects is very small but
significant, radiographs should be obtained only when there
is expectation that diagnostic yield (including the absence of
pathology) will influence patient care. 26 If dental treatment
must be deferred until after delivery, radiographic assessment
also should be deferred. All radiographic procedures should be
conducted in accordance with radiation safety practices. These
include optimizing the radiographic techniques, shielding the
pelvic region and thyroid gland, and using the fastest imaging
system consistent with the imaging task. Image receptors of
speeds slower than American National Standards Institute
(ANSI) speed group E shall not be used.