Knowledge and Attitudes About Advanced Maxillofacial Imaging in Dental Professionals

Overview

Introduction: Advanced maxillofacial imaging techniques, such as CBCT, CT, MRI, and hybrid modalities (PET/CT and SPECT/CT), have transformed diagnosis and treatment planning in dentistry. However, their increasing availability poses challenges related to the appropriate indication, interpretation, and application of radiation protection principles. Previous studies suggest variability in the level of knowledge and attitudes of dental professionals, which can impact the quality of care and patient safety. Objective: To evaluate and compare the level of knowledge and attitudes regarding advanced maxillofacial imaging techniques among general dentists, dentists with postgraduate training, undergraduate/master's students in dentistry, and maxillofacial surgeons. Methodology: A cross-sectional study will be conducted using a structured questionnaire administered to general dentists, specialists, and students. A non-probability convenience sampling method will be used, with an estimated sample size of 220 participants. Statistical analysis will be performed using SPSS (version 31.0.1.0), establishing a significance level of p \< 0.05. A descriptive analysis of the variables will be carried out, expressing qualitative variables as frequencies and percentages, and quantitative variables as mean and standard deviation or median and range, depending on their distribution, which will be assessed using normality tests. For bivariate analysis, ANOVA or Kruskal-Wallis tests will be used to compare the level of knowledge, attitudes, and confidence levels between groups, according to the data distribution, with post-hoc analysis in case of significant differences. Ordinal variables, such as the frequency of test requests, will be analyzed using chi-square tests. Associations between variables will also be explored using Spearman's rank correlation coefficient, Student's t-test, or Mann-Whitney U test, and chi-square tests, depending on the nature of the data. Expected conclusion: This study will allow us to identify differences in knowledge and attitudes between groups, as well as detect training needs, contributing to optimizing clinical practice and radiological safety in dentistry.

This study aims to explore the knowledge, attitudes, and confidence levels of dental professionals and dental students regarding the use of advanced maxillofacial imaging modalities, including cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), medical computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT), and single-photon emission computed tomography/computed tomography (SPECT/CT). These imaging techniques play an increasingly important role in diagnosis, treatment planning, and patient management within dentistry and oral and maxillofacial surgery. The study will employ a cross-sectional survey design using a structured questionnaire distributed to dentists, dental specialists, oral and maxillofacial surgeons, and undergraduate and postgraduate dental students. The questionnaire will assess participants' educational background, clinical experience, familiarity with advanced imaging modalities, understanding of radiological principles, confidence in image interpretation, and attitudes toward the clinical use and prescription of these examinations. The project seeks to identify potential differences among professional groups and educational levels, as well as factors associated with greater knowledge and more appropriate use of advanced imaging technologies. Particular attention will be given to awareness of radiation protection principles and the appropriate indication of imaging examinations in dental practice. The findings are expected to contribute to the identification of educational needs and support the development of targeted training strategies aimed at improving diagnostic decision-making, patient safety, and the quality of radiological practice in dentomaxillofacial healthcare.