Patent Number: 040244059
Section: summary

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION This invention relates to a dental X-ray eye shield and more particularly to a glasses-type of shield having a radiolucent frame and radiopaque, shielding lens cups. The public is exposed daily to possible radiation from the following sources: medical and dental X-rays, the sun, color television, microwave ovens, etc. According to the U.S. Public Health Service, the two greatest sources of exposure are medical and dental X-rays. In the field of dentistry, radiographs have become a standard diagnostic procedure. However, this is of concern to many since unnecessary exposure to radiation is thought to be harmful. Not only is radiation of concern during routine dental X-rays, but it is especially important when a series of radiographs are required, e.g., in the diagnosis and evaluation of so many potential young orthodontic patients. For these reasons, Medwedeff in U.S. Pats. Re. Nos. 25,773; 3,092,721, and 3,304,423 addresses the problem. Disclosed in the Medwedeff patents is a dental X-ray shield and aiming means. The Medwedeff devide is an attempt to prevent any unnecessary radiation exposure. While this is certainly a laudable objective, the system of Medwedeff is cumbersome, difficult to use, and has found little acceptance in the profession. Therefore, the problem remains. At present, the only readily accepted solution is use of blanket or garment type shields containing lead impregnated plastic materials. These are conventionally draped over the patent's chest during dental radiography. They do not protect the eyes. One thought is that the eyes alone might be protected easily and economically without resorting to a Medwedeff-type device. This is an area of particular concern since the tissues of the eye are very susceptible to radiation. Cataracts and tumors of the eye may result from accumulated excessive radiation. Of course, eye radiation shields are known, but to my knowledge none have been used as a protection against dental X-rays. In fact, the eye radiation shields with which I am familiar could not be used effectively for that purpose. That is, Crosson (U.S. Pat. No. 3,030,628 ) and Christianson (U.S. Pat. No. 3,325,825 ) shown eye radiation shields, but neither would effectively block out X-ray radiation from all angles. Christianson is an RF radiation shield in the form of goggles. It has a conductive frame and a light transparent lens. The conductive frame would also make it unacceptable for dental use. It would be impossible to position the X-ray machine cone for quality radiographs on a patient wearing such an eye shield because important anatomical landmarks vital to an accurate diagnosis would be blocked or distorted by the conductive frame. Besides an RF radiation shield which permits vision through the lenses, would not effectively protect the eyes themselves against X-ray radiation. The mask of Crosson is similar. The louvers 21 of Crosson protect against radioactive radiation, but at the same time allow vision through the lens. Accordingly, the need remains for an eye shield which may be used during dental radiography without interference of the frame in making the radiographs while at the same time preventing radiation exposure of the eye tissue. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention fulfills that need by providing an X-ray eye shield which will effectively protect the patient's eye tissue without interfering in any manner with the work of the dentist, hygienist, or dental assistant. It will protect against excess radiation during routine diagnostic radiographs, as well as provide a safety shield to protect the eyes from any radiation leaks which might occur. Perhaps more significantly, it will help allay the fear and apprehension of so many radiophobic patients who are concerned about the potential dangers of radiation. The eye shield of the instant invention is basically a glasses-type device which fits the head of the patient. A radiolucent frame (plastic) conforms to the contour of the head. Spring-loaded hinges may be used to hold the frame tightly in place on the patient. The bridge of the frame is lower than on a normal spectacle frame. This permits positioning of the nose guide of certain common X-ray machines on the bridge of the nose. Attached to the frame are two radiopaque lens cups. These are hinged passively so that they may be adjusted, as desired, into close conformity with the eye socket. The lens cups contain a material which will prevent passage of X-ray radiation. In this case the material is preferably 0.030 to 0.040 inch thick lead encased in plastic. A suitable thin metal support or frame may be used for support of the lens cups, although, this is not necessary. The lens cups are coextensive with the metal hinges on the frame so that the only areas from which radiation is occluded is the area inside the eye socket. All other surrounding areas of the oral cavity are exposed so that the important anatomical landmarks necessary to accurate diagnosis may be X-rayed without distortion. Accordingly, it is a object of the present invention to provide an X-ray eye shield which may be used during dental radiography. Other objects and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the following descripton, the accompanying drawing and the appendedd claims.