Biosafety Knowledge and Compliance among Dentistry Students in Intraoral Radiography: A Cross-sectional Study at a Private Institution in Brazil

Abstract

Aims: To assess the level of knowledge of Dentistry students at FIPMoc Afya University Center (UNIFIPMoc) regarding biosafety regulations in the execution of intraoral radiographs. Study design: Cross-sectional and observational epidemiological study. Place and Duration of Study: Health Care and Professional Practice Center (NASPP) at UNIFIPMoc, between February and August 2022. Methodology: 104 students participated in the study, with students from the 5th to 9th semesters, with no restrictions regarding age, gender, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status. The study was approved by the Research Ethics Committee. Data were collected through a structured digital questionnaire containing 17 objective questions on the Google Forms platform, along with the Informed Consent Form (ICF). The analysis was descriptive and presented in tables with absolute numbers and percentages. Results: The study's findings underscore both progress and gaps in biosafety training among dental students, highlighting areas for improvement in adherence to protocols. The high percentage of participants expressing concern about biosafety and the widespread use of physical barriers, such as plastic bags and masks (99.03%), indicate a strong awareness of infection control measures. However, inconsistencies in the use of disinfectants, particularly the 5.77% who did not use any, suggest a need for reinforcement in practical training. Notably, while over half (52.88%) of the students used plastic barriers to protect radiographic films, the lack of sterilization of positioners (85.57%) represents a critical gap that could compromise infection control. Similarly, the relatively low percentage of students washing their hands before and after procedures (41.35%) and the 50% who did not disinfect X-ray equipment highlight the necessity of reinforcing hygiene protocols in clinical training. Conclusion: Although concern for biosafety and the use of physical barriers are observed, failures in infection control, sterilization, and hand hygiene indicate deficiencies in practical training. Simulated training, periodic evaluations, and strengthened faculty supervision are recommended.