The use of collimation in radiation safety is primarily intended to do what?

The primary purpose of collimation in radiation safety is to reduce radiation exposure. Collimation involves the use of a device that narrows the beam of radiation, ensuring that only the necessary area of the patient is exposed to radiation. This not only helps in minimizing unnecessary exposure to surrounding tissues, but also concentrates the radiation on the area of interest, improving the safety of both patients and workers by reducing the overall dose received from diagnostic imaging procedures.

While collimation may indirectly contribute to aspects like image clarity by reducing scatter radiation, the foremost intention is to enhance safety through dose reduction. It is a crucial practice in radiation protection protocols, emphasizing the commitment to minimizing exposure to ionizing radiation, particularly in dental and medical settings.