Maryland approves handheld X-ray for special needs dentistry

April 1, 2009
Approval effective April 1, 2009.

OREM, Utah--Aribex has announced its NOMAD handheld X-ray device has been approved for use by dentists and veterinarians in Maryland.

The Maryland Department of the Environment, Radiological Health Program has approved the operation of handheld X-ray devices for use in nursing homes, hospitals, home health care situations, and with special needs patients or sedated patients, effective April 1, 2009.

Following a short period of evaluation by the Radiological Health Program Radiation Machines Division, the department concluded that there were "no definitive public health concerns regarding operation of handheld dental x-ray devices."

Aribex is a leader in handheld X-ray technology and manufacturer of the NOMAD Handheld X-ray systems. Because of its portability, the NOMAD has helped provide the opportunity for quality oral health care to thousands of individuals around the world.

Doug Harding, vice president of quality and regulatory affairs for Aribex, hopes that this approval will grant persons access to care who would not otherwise receive it.

"It is unfortunate when a person, a child in many cases, has to sacrifice their health because they aren't privileged to the funds, transportation or other means necessary," said Harding. "The NOMAD is designed to provide the highest level of quality, safety and service to individuals, no matter their situation."

As with all radiological devices, Maryland has asked that certain protocols be followed as conditions for registering each device with the state. Handheld X-ray units are prohibited in conventional dental offices or for schools screenings.

Permanent, mounted nonremovable shields must be affixed to devices, preventing operator exposure to scatter radiation. Also, only those persons licensed with Maryland are allowed to operate the devices.

Maryland marks the 40th state to approve the NOMAD handheld X-ray technology for dental, veterinarian and forensic use. Because of the approval, more residents of the state will have access to smiles and oral health care.

For more information, visit Aribex.

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