Int J Stomatol

Int J Stomatol ›› 2026, Vol. 53 ›› Issue (4): 607-614.doi: 10.7518/gjkq.2026223

• Review • Previous Articles    

Hospital infection risks and countermeasures in digital intraoral X-ray imaging technology

Lei Zhao1(),Yongle Shi2,Yang Liu1,Cui Lin1,Chunyan Li1,Jiayin Ren3()   

  1. 1.State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & The Eastern District Outpatient Department, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
    2.State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & Dept. of Emergency Dentistry, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
    3.State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & Dept. of Radiology, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
  • Received:2025-01-05 Revised:2025-04-11 Online:2026-07-01 Published:2026-06-25
  • Contact: Jiayin Ren E-mail:851479048@qq.com;jiayinren@163.com
  • Supported by:
    Sub-project of the National Key Research and Development Program(2022YFC2402103)

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Abstract:

In dental diagnosis and treatment, intraoral radiography serves as a widely utilized auxiliary imaging modality due to its cost-effectiveness, operational convenience, low radiation exposure, and high resolution. However, the ima-ging process of intraoral radiographs involves multiple infection-related risks. These associated risks include environmental contamination by blood and saliva due to the unique intraoral imaging technique, the presence of open oral wounds in some patients or occult infections initially manifesting as oral symptoms, non-standardized imaging procedures by operators, and improper handling of equipment and imaging environments. Collectively, these factors lead to a high risk of cross-infection during imaging procedures, which is frequently ignored in clinical practice. Consequently, this study reviews current hospital-acquired infection risks associated with digital intraoral X-ray imaging technology. By synthesizing domestic and international literature and drawing upon clinical experience, we have optimized standardized intraoral radiographic protocols, established ima-ging strategies for high-risk patients, and enhanced disinfection protocols for equipment and environments. These measures aim to effectively mitigate infection risks inherent in intraoral radiographic procedures.

Key words: infection control, digital periapical film, bisecting angle technique for periapical radiography, parallel technique for periapical radiography

CLC Number: 

  • R78

TrendMD: 

Fig 1

Consumables utilized during shooting"

Fig 2

Images scanned from a blank imaging plate"

Fig 3

Images of damaged dental film protective sleeves"

Fig 4

Luminol test"

Fig 5

SOP of taking intraoral X-ray films"

Fig 6

Illustrated diagram of the SOP for taking intraoral X-ray films"

Fig 7

Reasons related to the imaging plate"

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