BMC Oral Health. 2026 Jun 6. doi: 10.1186/s12903-026-08766-w. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to evaluate patients’ knowledge-related responses, attitudes, anxiety levels, and radiation risk perceptions regarding dental radiographic imaging methods.
MATERIALS AND 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).
RESULTS: 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.
CONCLUSION: 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.
PMID:42251337 | DOI:10.1186/s12903-026-08766-w
