Section 1631. Intraoral dental radiographic equipment

In addition to the applicable provisions of 12VAC5-481-1591, 12VAC5-481-1601, and 12VAC5-481-1621, the requirements of this section apply to x-ray equipment and associated facilities used for dental intraoral radiography. Requirements for extraoral dental radiographic systems are in 12VAC5-481-1621.

1. Radiation exposure control. Means shall be provided to initiate the radiation exposure by a deliberate action on the part of the operator, such as the depression of a switch. Radiation exposure shall not be initiated without such an action.

2. Exposure control location and operator protection.

a. Stationary x-ray systems shall be required to have the x-ray exposure control permanently mounted in a protected area, so that the operator is required to remain in that protected area during the entire exposure; and

b. Mobile and portable x-ray systems that are:

(1) Used for greater than one week in the same location that is, a room or suite, shall meet the requirements of subdivision 2 a of this section.

(2) Used for less than one week in the same location shall be provided with either a protective barrier at least two meters (6.5 feet) high for operator protection, or means to allow the operator to be at least 2.7 meters (nine feet) from the tube housing assembly while making exposures.

3. kVp limitations. Dental x-ray machines with a nominal fixed kVp of less than 50 kVp shall not be used to make diagnostic dental radiographs of humans.

4. Administrative controls.

a. Patient and film holding devices shall be used when the techniques permit.

b. The tube housing and the PID for a permanently mounted intraoral dental system shall not be hand-held during an exposure.

c. Dental fluoroscopy without image intensification shall not be used.

Historical Notes

Derived from Volume 31, Issue 24, eff. August 27, 2015.

Statutory Authority

§ 32.1-229 of the Code of Virginia.