Perception of dental undergraduates and interns on radiation protection safety protocol - A questionnaire based cross-sectional study

Background: Radiographs are an important diagnostic tool for dental professionals. X-rays have the ability to penetrate human tissues. Nowadays, it is mandatory to follow ALARA principle “As Low As Reasonably Achievable” during dentist routine work to reduce the radiation dose, by which the exposure to dental radiation should be minimized where practicable. Objectives: The present study was conducted to assess the knowledge of Third year, Final year dental students and interns regarding dental radiation protection safety protocol as well as their knowledge on dental radiography. Materials and methods: The present cross sectional study was performed on 180 participants of BRS Dental College and Hospital, Sultanpur. The responders were divided into 61 3rd year dental students, 54 Final year students and 65 interns. Data was collected by using self designed questionnaire which consisted of 12 questions pertaining to knowledge and practices of undergraduates and interns regarding radiographic protection. Results: It was observed that limited participants were aware of the radiation protection protocols and it was more so with the interns, followed by the fourth and third year students. Conclusion: The radiographs can pose as a potential hazard to health of both dentists as well as the patients. Thus it is necessary to reduce the exposure to dental radiation.