Knowledge of correct prescription of radiographs among dentists in Yazd, Iran

Background and aims. While the use of X-ray is increasing, professional responsibility of dentists entitles them to have sufficient and correct knowledge of using radiographs. The aim of this study was to assess the level of knowledge of correct prescription of radiographs among dentists in Yazd, Iran. Materials and methods. This was a descriptive cross-sectional study including 134 general dentists and dental specialists. A self-administered questionnaire was used to assess their level of knowledge in various sections pertaining to prescription of radiographs. Their level of knowledge was compared in each section on the basis of gender and educational status. Results. Participants showed a high level of awareness in prescription of panoramic, periapical radiographs, and computerized tomography, whereas it was moderate in the field of occlusal radiographs, susceptible patients to caries, patients with periodontal diseases, evaluation of growth condition and dental crypts and weak in the fields of bitewing radiographs and insusceptible patients to caries. There was no difference in level of knowledge between genders. The level of knowledge in specialists was higher than general dentists except for using X-ray for susceptible patients to caries where no significant difference was observed. Conclusion. Specialist dentists were more knowledgeable than general dentists in prescribing radiological examinations.