Comprehensive Assessment of Knowledge and Awareness of General Dental Practitioners about Cone Beam Computed Tomography in Various Prosthodontic Rehabilitative Procedures: An Original Research Study

Abstract

Background and Aim:

Recently, three-dimensional imaging technique Cone beam computed tomography has established many landmarks in the field of dental radiology. Currently, CBCT is typically advised by oral radiologist (for head & neck diagnosis) and by prosthodontists (for implantology). Dental implant rehabilitation is the most common rehabilitation treatment where CBCT is comprehensively used. The aim of this study was to evaluate the current knowledge and awareness about Cone Beam Computed Tomography in various prosthodontic rehabilitative procedures among general dental practitioner in Bhopal District, India.

Materials & Methods: The study was completely based on a cross sectional philosophy using a questionnaire. Initially, a total of 100 private dental practitioners of Bhopal District, India were approached and requested to complete the questionnaire. We used close ended questionnaire containing questions regarding the current knowledge and awareness about Cone Beam Computed Tomography. The questionnaire was distributed among dentists in private clinics. We analyzed the data of dentists who truly responded to this questionnaire. Response was recorded and data was analyzed statistically to assess real knowledge and awareness level.

Results: Statistical analysis was completed by statistical software Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). The recorded data was subjected to appropriate statistical tests to obtain p values, mean, standard deviation, standard error an 95% CI. P ≤ 0.05 was considered as statistically significant. 30 practitioners were belonging to the age range of 32-35 years consequently we can assume that most of the general dental practitioners were belonging to younger age groups. P value was significant in group III of age range 40-43 years. The measured value was 0.01. 24 practitioners were reported in age group of 40-43.

Conclusion: Within the limitations of the study authors concluded that dentists Knowledge and awareness about Cone Beam Computed Tomography about various prosthodontic rehabilitative procedures was at fair levels only. Because CBCT is a promising innovation in the field of oral radiology and implantology, repeated awareness campaigns and educational demonstrations must be performed judiciously.