Diagnostic radiographers' perspectives on dental radiography in selected provinces in South Africa.

BACKGROUND

Dental radiography forms part of the scope and training for a diagnostic radiographer in South Africa; yet there is limited published evidence related to these professionals' knowledge, attitudes and practices on dental radiography.

AIM

This study aimed to determine the knowledge, attitudes and practices of diagnostic radiographers on dental radiography.

SETTING

This study was conducted in three South African provinces, namely, KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng and the Western Cape.

METHODS

This study used a cross-sectional, correlational design, using purposive and snowball sampling techniques. An online questionnaire was used for data collection, and the data were analysed using SPSS version 29.0.

RESULTS

A study response rate of = 207 was obtained, where 75.4% of participants agreed that they were aware of what dental radiography entails, 68.1% of participants reported not having adequate knowledge of the necessary dental radiography techniques and 72.4% of participants did not know the key anatomical positioning landmarks in dental radiography. Almost 68.6% of participants disagreed with being able to practice dental radiography techniques confidently and independently. About 87.5% of participants agreed that they are willing and keen to learn about dental radiography, and 89.9% of participants were open to gaining clinical experience in dental radiography.

CONCLUSION

There were inconsistencies in participants' dental-specific knowledge and practical skills. There was a positive attitude among participants who showed a willingness to learn dental radiography.

CONTRIBUTION

This study reiterates the value of investing in continuous professional development activities to address identified knowledge, attitude and practice gaps among diagnostic radiographers in dental radiography.