Knowledge and Awareness of Radiation Hazards and Safety among Dental Hygienists, Dental Assistants and Dental Assistant Interns in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Introduction: X-ray plays a significant role in the field of dentistry and has a variety of uses in dental practice from diagnosis of tooth decay, periodontal diseases and bone defects to more sophisticated applications such as precision implant planning. The dental staff personnel use different modalities of X-rays on daily basis such as intra-oral radiography and cone beam computed tomography, although diagnostic X-rays have low quantum of ionizing radiation safety measures should be taken into consideration. All health care personnel are trained regrading radiation hazard and safety measures. Aim: To identify the level of Knowledge and awareness about radiation hazards and safety practices among dental hygienists, dental assistants and dental assistant interns in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Materials and Methods: A survey based on cross sectional study was conducted among (n=321) dental hygienists, dental assistants and dental assistant interns in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The survey was distributed using mixed methods as handout papers and online mediums. The questionnaire comprised of 14 questions (the total of demographic data was four (4) questions and for knowledge and awareness was ten (10) questions. Results: From the (321) participants (75.7 %) responses had expected correct answers. The majority of participants (86%) considered dental x-rays to be harmful to all types of patients. Conclusion: Within limitations of this study, dental assistants, dental hygienists and dental assisting interns had adequate knowledge and awareness of radiation hazards and safety measures, however, there is a need for continual teaching of ALARA principle and radiation safety protocols during pregnancy to ensure maximum safety.