Hand-held X-ray device: A review

Abstract

This is an era of digital revolution where the world is shifting from analogue to digital electronics. This revolution has led to the invention miniaturization of devices and one such invention is hand-held X-ray devices. With the introduction of new technology in dental radiology, there is a need to change or update old guidelines that many states use to regulate the use of ionizing radiation. Currently, there are voluntary guidelines promulgated by the NCRP for dental radiation protection. Many states use the Conference of Radiation Control Program Directors Suggested State Regulations for the Control of Radiation to regulate the use of X-ray equipment. Hand-held portable X-ray devices are increasingly used for intraoral radiography. This development introduced new challenges to operator and patient safety, for which new or revised risk assessments must be made and acted upon prior to use.