A questionnaire study on dental radiation knowledge and anxiety among patients applying to a faculty of dentistry

The aim of this study was to evaluate patients' knowledge-related responses, attitudes, anxiety levels, and radiation risk perceptions regarding dental radiographic imaging methods.

A structured 30-item questionnaire was administered face-to-face to 410 participants. Anxiety and radiation risk perception were assessed using a 5-point Likert scale, while knowledge-related responses were evaluated using categorical responses. Constructs were analyzed separately as anxiety (emotional response to radiographic procedures), risk perception (radiation-related concerns), and knowledge-related responses (factual awareness of radiation).

A total of 410 participants were included (mean age: 32.98 ± 12.66 years; 58.8% female). Overall anxiety levels regarding radiographic procedures were low; however, increased anxiety was observed in situations involving radiation exposure and absence of protective aprons. Radiation risk perception was generally at a moderate level; however, the tendency to refuse or postpone radiographic examinations recommended by the dentist was low. Female participants had higher radiation risk perception scores; however, this difference was not statistically significant. Regarding knowledge-related responses, participants demonstrated higher awareness of computed tomography (CT) and natural background radiation, while uncertainty was prominent regarding magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and panoramic radiography (PR) dose.

Although patients generally tolerate dental radiographic procedures with low anxiety, uncertainties regarding radiation exposure contribute to increased perceived risk. These findings highlight the need for structured, evidence-based patient information strategies to improve radiation literacy and support informed acceptance of dental imaging procedures.