Evaluation of dentists’ knowledge about the use of radiology in pediatric dentistry in Serbia

Abstract

Background/Aim. Radiology is a crucial part of dentists’ everyday practice. It plays a vital role in diagnosis, treatment planning and the follow-up care of patients. The aim of this study was to evaluate the knowledge of dentists in Serbia concerning the use of radiology in pediatric dentistry. Methods. In total, 252 dentists from across Serbia participated in the study. A questionnaire was created in order to examine dentists’ knowledge about the use of radiology in pediatric dentistry. The questionnaire consisted of 39 questions. All questions were analyzed in SPSS 24 statistical software. Results. According to the results, 42.1% of dentists worked in private practice, 17.8% at University clinics and 40.1% in National Health Services. Out of total 252 respondents, only 82 (32.5%) had an x-ray unit. A total of 199 (79%) dentists replied they would diagnose early caries lesions only by inspection, but 30 (11.9%) dentists said they would make a diagnosis by doing both the inspection and taking a radiograph. The results show that 187 (74.2%) respondents said that they did not make an OPG for every patient. When asked about the disposal of radiological waste, 84.3% of dentists did not answer the question. Conclusion. Attempts should be made in order to upgrade and update Serbian dentists overall knowledge about the use of radiology in pediatric dentistry.