Exploring Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices of Dentists in Saudi Arabia on Medicolegal Aspects of Preoperative Radiographs: A Cross-sectional Study.

Abstract

Aim: The aim of the study is to investigate the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of dentists in Saudi Arabia concerning the medicolegal implications of preoperative radiographs.

Materials and methods: A cross-sectional survey targeting dentists was conducted using an online questionnaire (Google Forms) disseminated via online dental forums, professional associations, and social media platforms frequented by dentists in Saudi Arabia. 300 dentists participated in the survey. The questionnaire consisted of 28 questions divided into four main sections (6, 8, 6, 8, respectively)-demographics; professional background; knowledge and practices that explored the respondents' understanding of medicolegal concepts, their frequency of obtaining preoperative radiographs, and their familiarity with the ethical implications surrounding these practices and ethical and legal considerations that examined views on the importance of patient education, informed consent, and the role of ethics in mitigating legal risks. Data was analyzed using SPSS software version 20. Descriptive statistics in the form of numbers and percentages were calculated. The item mean score and the overall mean score for the responses were calculated.

Results: The 300 respondents participated in the study we got a 100% response rate. The majority were male (55.3%) and were Saudi residents (94.3%). Most respondents rated their understanding of medicolegal complications regarding preoperative radiographs as fair (35.3%), while 19.3% rated it as poor. Only 62.4% viewed preoperative radiographs as very or extremely important in preventing malpractice claims, and 63.7% considered them crucial evidence in legal disputes. Additionally, 65% felt that fear of malpractice influences unnecessary radiographs, and 75.0% agreed that patient education could reduce malpractice risks. Notably, 85.7% had not received formal training on the legal implications of radiographs, highlighting an educational gap. Confidence in justifying radiographic practices to legal professionals varied, with 58.4% reporting moderate to high confidence, while 54.7% felt uncomfortable defending the decision not to take radiographs when typically recommended.

Conclusion: Many dentists lack sufficient knowledge and confidence about pertinent legal principles, even if they acknowledge the importance of preoperative radiographs in lowering malpractice claims and acting as legal proof.

Clinical significance: This study underscores the pressing need for improved training, policy development, and ethical standards to address the gaps in the medicolegal understanding of radiographic practices among dentists in Saudi Arabia. The integration of medicolegal education into dental training is essential for equipping dental professionals to navigate their legal responsibilities effectively. How to cite this article: Jaha H. Exploring Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices of Dentists in Saudi Arabia on Medicolegal Aspects of Preoperative Radiographs: A Cross-sectional Study. J Contemp Dent Pract 2025;26(3):277-284.