Assessment of Saudi dentists' awareness of and adherence to radiation protection measures

Abstract

Background: Ionizing radiation is widely employed in dentistry and other medical diagnostic and therapeutic treatments. As a result, dentists are among the occupational categories that are regularly exposed to ionizing radiation.
The purpose of this study is to evaluate dentists' radiation protection measures, attitudes, and knowledge. Methods: 271 dentists employed by the Jeddah Medical City as well as other private clinics and facilities in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, participated in a cross-sectional study using questionnaires. Convenience sampling was used to choose participants, and a self-administered structured questionnaire was used to gather data.
Findings: Radiation hazards and safety knowledge scores ranged from 3 to 16, with a median of 11 and a mean of 11.05 ± 2.56. Additionally, three quarter of dentist possessed good knowledge, while only one quarter lacked it. Furthermore, In terms of dentists' compliance with radiation safety protocols while in practice, 49.1%, 41.3%, 49.4%, 38.4%, and 45.8% of the dentists in the study stated that they frequently or very frequently stand behind a lead barrier when exposed to X-rays, wear lead aprons, stand six feet away from the main X-ray beam, hold or display warning signs while exposed to X-rays, and permit people to enter the room while exposed to X-rays, respectively
Conclusion: almost 75% of the dentists polled knew a lot about radiation safety and risks. The results do, however, point to gaps in some knowledge and practice, with many dentists voicing doubts on the lucidity of safety protocols at work. It is advised to establish a required, continuing education program for dentists that focuses on radiation hazards and the most recent safety procedures, given the constant exposure to radiation in their line of work.