What must the X-ray control label state?

• A. Caution: Do Not Operate Without Protective Equipment
• B. Notice: Radiation Safety Procedures Required
• C. Warning: This X-ray Unit May Be Dangerous to Patient and Operator Unless Safe Exposure Factors and Operating Instructions Are Observed
• D. Alert: For Professional Use Only

Answer: (C)

Labels on dental X-ray control panels must clearly warn about radiation hazards and require adherence to safe exposure factors and operating instructions. This specific wording communicates both the risk and the action needed to stay safe, emphasizing that the unit can be dangerous to both patient and operator if proper exposure settings and operating procedures aren’t followed. It aligns with the goal of ensuring the operator checks and uses correct exposure factors, shielding, and technique before producing any radiographs. The other options focus on protective gear, generic procedures, or who may use the unit, but they don’t convey the inherent danger or the necessity of following exact exposure factors and instructions.