Knowledge and Attitude of Orthodontists towards Cone-Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT)

Abstract

Introduction: Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) system is designed to provide 3- dimensional representation of the maxillofacial skeleton with high diagnostic quality of hard tissues of the maxillofacial skeleton. Aim: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the level of knowledge and attitude towards CBCT of orthodontists practicing in two Arab countries in the Middle East. Subject and Method: Data was collected through a questionnaire assessing the knowledge and attitude towards CBCT. Results: A total of 41 participants were enrolled in the study. The most common age group (63%) among participants was more than 40 years old. Knowledge score was calculated as the percent of the right answers from the total of 21 knowledge questions. the distribution of all respondent’s CBCT knowledge revealed that more than three-quarters of the respondents were moderately knowledgeable (76%) whereas 12.2% were in the low and high categories. Conclusion: The study results indicate that there is a definite gap in knowledge and attitude towards CBCT applications amongst the dental specialists. The dental specialists themselves reported lack of training in this field, and strongly urge a need for training in this field.