RESUMO
OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to identify the current standards of radiologic practice in Trinidad and Tobago in relation to international ionizing radiation regulations with respect to dentistry. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A 32-point questionnaire that was previously tested was administered to 55 dentists who practice in different regions of Trinidad. The survey aimed to gather information on demographic factors, types of radiographic equipment, techniques and processing and radiation protection measures. RESULTS: The majority of dentists (61.8%) were not aware of the technical details of their equipment. Thirty- three dentists did not know the kVp of their machines and 17 dentists were not aware of the intraoral film speed that they utilize. Of the respondents, 85.5% used rounded collimators. The most common technique for periapical radiography was the paralleling technique (64%). Many respondents own panoramic X-ray units, but the majority of them (90.9%) did not take panoramic radiographs on all patients regardless of the dentists working environment. This was proven to be statistically significant (P<0.05). All dentists reportedly used some form of radiation protection, but only 8 respondents properly disposed of their radiographic waste by incineration. Lead aprons were utilized by 65.5% of respondents. CONCLUSION: The results of this study indicate that current radiological practices utilized by dentists in Trinidad and Tobago need improvement in some areas and there is a dire need for the development of national ionizing radiation guidelines specific to dentistry if best practice is to be maintained.
