Periodic testing for X-ray sources by dental staff occurs how often?

• A. Monthly
• B. Yearly
• C. Every 2 years
• D. Daily

Answer: (B)

Periodic quality assurance for dental X-ray sources is done on an annual basis. This interval balances safety, equipment aging, and practicality: X-ray tube output and beam characteristics can drift slowly over time, so a yearly check by a qualified person helps ensure the system continues to produce consistent, accurate exposures. Daily and routine checks by staff cover immediate operation and safety, but the formal periodic verification is typically performed once a year. Monthly checks aren’t usually required for periodic QA, and extending beyond a year risks undetected drift and noncompliance with common standards.