Evaluation of knowledge of dentists in Zanjan regarding principles of X-ray protection in 2019

Background and Aims: Radiography is one of the most important para-clinical methods in diagnosing and selecting treatment in dentistry. Due to the potential dangers of X-rays for patients, the professional responsibility of the dentist requires that unnecessary radiographs to be avoided. The aim of this study was to investigate the awareness of dentists in Zanjan about the principles of radiation protection in 2019. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was performed on 107 general dentists and specialists working in Zanjan and the questionnaires were distributed among them. The level of awareness of dentists in 27 questions of radiographic prescribing questionnaire was evaluated and in each of the mentioned questions, their gender, age, work experience, participation in retraining, having X-ray machine in the field of dentistry and type of activity were evaluated. Data were analyzed by Chi-square test, Independent T-test, and ANOVA using SPSS software version 22. Results: The results showed that the level of knowledge of general dentists about the principles of radiation protection (14.35±3.08) was lower than that of specialized dentists (17.19±2.35). Those who participated in retraining workshops (13.85±2.99) had less knowledge than those who did not (15.97±3.97), which was statistically significant (P<0.05); However, there was no significant difference in the dentists' knowledge about the principles of radiation protection based on gender, age, type of activity, having an X-ray machine at the place of treatment, and history of clinical experience (P≥0.05). Conclusion: Awareness of dentists at various levels was moderate. Therefore, designing and holding more purposeful retraining courses to maintain and improve the level of awareness of dentists according to the guidelines provided by the authorities, still seems to be necessary.