Introduction: Use of digital radiography in dentistry, as a new imaging technique, continues to
increase. A digital system has numerous advantages. The aim of this study was to determine the
frequency of the use of digital radiography and the reasons for using or not using digital imaging
systems among dentists in Esfahan in 2012.
Materials and methods: In the present descriptive/analytical survey, 140 dentists who participated
in continuing education courses in 2012 were randomly included. The participants received a
questionnaire consisting of 18 questions and filled it on the spot. Data was analyzed by SPSS 16
using chi-squared test and t-test (α=0.05).
Results: Ten responders (7.2%) had digital equipment in their office; 104 dentists (74.8%)
prescribed digital radiographs for referring patients to radiology centers. The most important
reasons for using digital systems by the respondents were no need for film processing steps,
absence of artifacts due to film processing procedures and low radiation doses. There were no
significant differences between the users and non-users of digital systems in relation to educational
degree (general practitioner or specialist) and years in dentistry (p value = 0.619, years in
dentistry; p value = 0.45, educational degree).
Conclusion: Under the limitations of the present study, although the frequency of the use of digital
radiographic systems is low in dental offices in Esfahan, it is advisable top order digital
radiographs when referring patients to radiology centers. Lack of need for film processing steps
and high costs are the reasons for using and not using digital systems, respectively.
Key words: Dentists, Digital Radiography, Radiolog
