IADR Abstract Archives
Awareness about radiation protection among the dentists.
Objectives: To evaluate the awareness about radiation protection among dentists.
Methods: A self formulated questionnaire composed of 7 questions was circulated among dentists. Before the administration of questionnaire, an informed consent was obtained from participants. The study was held for one month. A total of 200 dentists participated.
Results: The study demonstrated that only 35% of the dentists currently using digital radiographic machine. Only 16% of the dentists were aware about the collimator and its usage. 69% dentists were not aware of the current speed film they are using in their practice. 72% of the dentists were well aware how to reduce the radiation exposure. 66% of the dentists were aware that thyroid be the most sensitive organ in dental radiography. 35% of the dentists are taking radiograph for pregnant women. 45% dentists do not have separate exposure room.
Conclusions: The science of radiology is a double edged sword as it carries both the benefit and risk to the patient. Currently every dentists is using radiograph as basic tool for diagnosis and treatment planning. The study concluded that the majority of the participants do not follow radiation protection measures and are not aware how to minimize the radiation exposure to the patient and themselves.
Methods: A self formulated questionnaire composed of 7 questions was circulated among dentists. Before the administration of questionnaire, an informed consent was obtained from participants. The study was held for one month. A total of 200 dentists participated.
Results: The study demonstrated that only 35% of the dentists currently using digital radiographic machine. Only 16% of the dentists were aware about the collimator and its usage. 69% dentists were not aware of the current speed film they are using in their practice. 72% of the dentists were well aware how to reduce the radiation exposure. 66% of the dentists were aware that thyroid be the most sensitive organ in dental radiography. 35% of the dentists are taking radiograph for pregnant women. 45% dentists do not have separate exposure room.
Conclusions: The science of radiology is a double edged sword as it carries both the benefit and risk to the patient. Currently every dentists is using radiograph as basic tool for diagnosis and treatment planning. The study concluded that the majority of the participants do not follow radiation protection measures and are not aware how to minimize the radiation exposure to the patient and themselves.