Assessment of knowledge, attitude and awareness regarding cone beam computed tomography among dental graduates in Pune city, India

Abstract

Introduction: Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) is an advanced imaging modality which has abundant clinical applications in the field of dentistry. As diagnostic imaging equipment, it is changing ways for dental practitioners in terms of diagnosis and hence, planning a more accurate treatment plan. Materials and methods: A study was conducted among the dental graduates of Pune City. The structured, self-administered, close-ended questionnaire was designed to collect the data which consisted of two sections and comprised of 20 questions for assessing the knowledge, attitude and awareness among these students towards CBCT and to determine if an awareness lecture on the same could improve their knowledge and attitude on this topic. The reliability statistics were calculated and the Cronbach alpha was 0.751. Statistical analysis was done using descriptive statistics. Results: In this study, there were a total of 75 participants between 23-27 years of age. Before conducting the seminar, around 49.2% of the participants were well acquainted with the basics of CBCT and after the seminar, 79.9% of the participants became aware of the same. About 90% of the interns felt that conducting seminars and workshops can be helpful in enhancing their knowledge on CBCT. Conclusion: The participants had a positive attitude towards CBCT but lacked basic knowledge on, thus necessitating the need for more conducting CBCT workshops and awareness lectures.