Parental perceptions of ultrasonography in pediatric dental diagnostics: a cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: The use of ultrasonography in pediatric dentistry has gained attention due to its safety, diagnostic versatility, and ability to minimize radiation exposure in children. This study aimed to evaluate parents' knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions regarding the use of ultrasonographic imaging in pediatric dentistry. METHODS: This cross-sectional study included the parents of 347 children aged 1 to 13 years who attended the pediatric dentistry clinic of a public dental school in Van, eastern Turkey. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using a 27-item questionnaire covering parents' demographic characteristics, knowledge, attitudes, and concerns about ultrasonography. Chi-square and correlation analyses were used to evaluate the relationships between variables. RESULTS: Parents' knowledge and attitudes varied significantly by educational level and gender. Those with higher education levels demonstrated greater awareness and positive attitudes toward ultrasonography in dentistry. Female parents showed a greater preference than male parents for using ultrasonography in their children's dental treatment. Correlation analyses revealed strong positive associations among knowledge, attitudes, perceived benefits, and health literacy scores (r = 0.764-0.923, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Although parents generally held positive attitudes toward ultrasonography in pediatric dentistry, their level of knowledge was limited. Educational level and gender significantly influenced parental knowledge and health literacy. These findings highlight the need for targeted educational interventions to support informed participation in dental diagnostics.