A survey on dental undergraduates' knowledge of oral radiology

Abstract

Dentists' incorrect behavior with regards to Oral Radiology, as reported in the literature, has been related to inadequate training of undergraduates. Aim: This study assessed dental undergraduates' knowledge of Oral Radiology. Methods: A questionnaire containing 30 questions pertaining to three domains - General Principles, Radiobiology/Radioprotection and Technique/Interpretation - was used as data collection instrument. A total of 195 students answered the questionnaires. Results: No statistically significant differences were found between second-, third- and fourth year students (p>0.05) when the whole questionnaire and the General Principles domain (p>0.05) were considered. The Technique/Interpretation domain presented a borderline statistical significance level (p=0.051), with more correct answers attributed to second-year students. A statistically significant difference (p<0.05) was seen for the Radiobiology/Radio protection domain, in which the fourth-year students performed better. Conclusions: Dental undergraduates' knowledge of Oral Radiology did not increase or decrease significantly comparing the undergraduate years. However, with the exception of the Technique/Interpretation domain, students of more advanced undergraduate years answered more correctly the questions. Nevertheless, the Technique/ Interpretation domain should be reinforced throughout the undergraduate course.