Predoctoral and Postdoctoral Education on Cone-Beam Computed Tomography

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Radiology
• Medical Education

Background:

• Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) adoption is rising in dental practices.
• The American Dental Association advises on safe CBCT use and recommends training guidelines.
• Current education on CBCT may have significant gaps.

Purpose of the Study:

• Assess radiation safety concerns associated with CBCT.
• Identify educational voids in predoctoral and continuing dental education for CBCT.
• Evaluate current training and identify areas for improvement.

Main Methods:

• A survey was distributed to general practitioners, oral surgeons, and periodontists in Georgia.
• Data collection involved mailing surveys to 415 dental professionals.
• Response rate was 29%, with 121 surveys returned.

Main Results:

• 68% of respondents use CBCT, with most having over 2 years of experience.
• Only 12.4% had prior CBCT experience during dental school.
• Interest in CBCT continuing education is high among both users (59.8%) and non-users (43.6%).
• Approximately 50% of practitioners use radiation safety measures, with varied methods.

Conclusions:

• Significant educational gaps exist in CBCT radiation safety, patient dose factors, and interpretation.
• Predoctoral and continuing education programs need enhancement regarding CBCT basics, limitations, anatomy, pathology, and interpretation.
• Further research with a higher response rate is needed to strengthen findings.