Barriers Toward Better CBCT Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice

Objective: This study attempts to evaluate the knowledge, attitude, and clinical practice of Iraqi dentists toward CBCT use, referral patterns, observed challenges, and the impacts of previous training on its adoption. Material and Methods: A total of 202 Iraqi dentists participated in this study and self-administered questionnaires were distributed to them via Google Forms from 3/2/2025 to 1/4/2025. Participants included both general practitioners (GPs) and specialists regardless of their years of experience in different dental fields. Results: Dental specialists showed significantly higher referral frequency for CBCT compared with GPs (P = 0.002). However, there was no significant relationship between gender and referral frequency for CBCT (P = 0.068), also, there were no statistically significant differences were noticed in the specialists' responses in comparison to GPs about following guidelines for CBCT request (P = 0.167), having formal training on CBCT (P = 0.255), their adequacy of knowledge of CBCT (P = 0.293), and the need for CBCT training (P = 0.058). There was a significant difference in the specialist responses compared to GPs about the necessity of CBCT in daily practice (P = 0.014). While there were no significant differences between both genders and years of practice (P = 0.138, P = 0.091), respectively, regarding the necessity of CBCT. Also, no significant relationship was found between both specialties and age groups (P = 0.14, P = 0.839), respectively regarding the primary purpose of CBCT. A highly significant relationship has been found between being aspecialist versus GP and CBCT radiation dose compared to CT (P = 0.001). While no significant relationship when CBCT dose compared to orthopantomography (OPG) (P = 0.084). Conclusion: The major barrier toward better CBCT KAP was the lack of undergraduate training to CBCT imaging. Initiating a new educational initiatives program and establishing clear referral guidelines are crucial to fostering the effectiveness and ensuring the appropriate use of CBCT in dental practice across Iraq.