Knowledge, Attitude And Practice Of Dentists About The Usage Of Panoramic Radiographs In Children- A Questionnaire Study

Background: Panoramic radiographs are widely used in pediatric dental practice but they should be prescribed only when there is an expectation that the diagnostic yield will affect patient care. Pediatric patients have a higher risk of undergoing malignant transformation than adults. Aim: This survey was conducted to evaluate the knowledge, attitude and practice of dentists on prescribing panoramic radiographs in children less than 6 years of age. Materials and Methods: Responses were collected from 100 Pediatric Dentists and 100 General Dentists through an electronic questionnaire which consisted of 12 questions. Results: The study revealed that more than 60% of the dentists were unaware of the AAPD guidelines on prescribing panoramic radiographs in children and the most common reason for prescribing an OPG was multiple carious lesions. Conclusion: There is an imperative need for educating the general dentists about the AAPD guidelines and radiation exposure in children and the use of radiation protection equipment should be made mandatory for children and the operating personnel.