Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Radiation Protection Protocols amongst Students of a Dental College

Objective: To assess the knowledge, attitude and practice of radiation protection among dental students in a dental college in eastern India. Background: Radiation hazard is one of the major challenges of modern dental practices. Reliance on radiation imaging has increased tremendously during recent years. The effect of radiation on human being is very negative. Knowledge and awareness regarding radiation protection during dental training is crucial for ensuring better radiation protection practice after training. Materials and Methods: A cross sectional survey was conducted among 107 dental students comprising of undergraduate students, dental interns and post-graduate students in teaching dental institute in capital city in eastern Indian state. Results: 56% of the participants were aware about the harmful effects of radiation exposure. Only 27% students overall were aware about symbol of radiation hazard. 77% of UG students and 52% of interns were aware about ideal distance to stand during radiography. Overall 88% students which included all PG students, 94% of interns and 77% of UG students were aware about personal protective equipments. Almost all dental students (97%) were using lead apron in designated area for protection from radiation exposure. Overall 82% of students were using the personal protection badge. Conclusion: Based on results of this finding, the overall knowledge, Awareness and Practice regarding radiation protection among dental student was not uniformly good.