Cognizance about potential cancer risks due to cone-beam computed tomography systems among dental professionals

Abstract

Background: There is an increase in the number of Cone Beam Computed Tomography users, and it comes to the risk of developing cancer and mutations of genes in children below 18 years of age and the foetus of pregnant women. Knowing such conditions is necessary among dentists to prevent these conditions in the future. Aim: To determine the knowledge and familiarity about Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) and its side effects among dental professionals. Methodology: A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study is done among 202 dentists. The results were validated using Chi-square values. In addition, the criterion-based purpose sampling technique was used to select the participants. Results: Out of 202 individuals, less than 30% were only familiar with CBCT and its side effects. The majority of the dental professionals were aware of the risk of suggesting a CBCT scan to children below 18 years (p value=0.003). Conclusion: The study result shows the lack of knowledge of CBCT and its side effects among dentists.