Radiographic Caries Detection Behavior in a Sample of Dentists and Dental Specialists

Radiographic caries detection depends not only on correctly acquired radiographs but also on the way they are displayed and interpreted.
Objective: This research aims to measure behavioral factors important for caries detection among dentists.
Materials & Methods: A sample of 206 dentists was surveyed using a self-reported questionnaire after a focus group and a pilot study. Questions asked were related to the type of image used, the way the image is displayed, the use of magnification, and the use of vision correction aids if needed. Responses were analyzed using descriptive statistics.
Results: The use of the following was BW (>95%), viewing box (68%), masking extra-light (<15%), dimming room’s light (<15%), magnification (<13%), and vision correction aid (85% from those who need it). The most frequently reported reasons were “availability” and “lack of knowledge”.
Conclusions: There is a significant undesirable behavioral practice during radiographic caries detection among the studied sample. The main reasons seem to be “convenience” and lack of knowledge.