lead apron

lead apron

[led]

Etymology: AS, led + Fr, napperon

a protective shield of lead and rubber that may be worn by a patient, radiologic technologist or radiologist, or both during exposure to x-rays or other diagnostic radiation. It is intended to guard against excessive exposure of the reproductive and other vital body organs to ionizing radiation. Also called protective apron.

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apron,

n a piece of clothing worn in front of the body for protection.

apron band,

n a labioincisal or gingival extension of an orthodontic band that aids in retention of the band and in proper positioning of the bracket.

apron, lead,

n an apron made of materials containing metallic lead or lead compounds used to reduce radiation hazards.

apron, lingual,

n See connector, linguoplate major.

apron, rubber dam,

n a small strip of rubber dam, perforated to fit over an implant abutment that is used to inhibit introduction of cement into the periimplant space.

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lead (Pb),

n a common soft, blue-gray, metallic element. Its atomic number is 82, and its atomic weight is 207. In its metallic form, it is used as a protective shielding against radiographs. (In dentistry, lead acts as a protective shield against the radiographic beam and is found in the lead apron and walls of the surrounding operatory.) It is poisonous, a characteristic that has led to a reduction in the use of lead compound as pigments for paints and inks.

lead apron,

n See apron, lead.

lead glass,

n See glass, lead.

lead poisoning,

n See plumbism.