Maximum protection of the patient requires that the x-ray beam pass through which type of cone?

The maximum protection of the patient during dental radiography involves ensuring that scattered radiation is minimized while still allowing for an optimal quality image. The shielded open-ended cone is designed to direct the x-ray beam accurately and limit exposure to unnecessary areas.

Open-ended cones provide a focused beam that helps achieve optimal images of the target area while ensuring that excess radiation does not spread to adjacent tissues. Additionally, the shielding aspect of the cone helps absorb some of the scatter radiation, further protecting the patient from unnecessary exposure.

In contrast, a plastic closed-ended cone would not provide the same level of radiation protection, as it does not contribute to absorbing or directing the radiation effectively. A shielded closed-ended cone may offer some benefits, but it typically does not allow for a finely directed x-ray beam that would reduce scatter radiation as effectively as an open-ended design. While a lead apron offers significant protection to the patient's torso from scattered radiation, it does not prevent the initial exposure and scatter generated by the x-ray beam itself, making the configuration and type of cone used a critical factor in ensuring maximum patient safety.