KNOWLEDGE AND AWARENESS OF DENTAL IMPLANTS AMONG GENERAL PUBLIC IN INDIA- A WEB-BASED QUESTIONNAIRE SURVEY

Abstract

BACKGROUND: To develop an evidence based report on the level of knowledge and awareness about dental implants among public in South India through web–based questionnaire. So that this can be utilized for better understanding of patients’ needs and gain of knowledge among dental practitioners. MATERIALS&METHODS: A structured questionnaire survey was done to assess the level of knowledge and awareness about dental implants among the public through Google form. Two interviewers with dental background did the study, for a period of 4 months. All questions were close-ended multiple-choice questions. RESULTS: 1050 participants recorded their responses for this survey. Among them 566 (53.9%) are males and 484 (46.1%) are females, between age groups of 15-75 years. About 59.81% people have heard implant as a treatment procedure and 40.19% not aware, but on the contrary only 7.8% respondents have undergone an implant procedure. CONCLUSION: This survey reflects the clinical scenario of our day-to-day practice. Even though the patient knows of this dental treatment, many are not willing to undergo this procedure. The reason behind may be the fear of surgery or the cost of this treatment but it is in the clinician’s hands to improve this current situation in South India. Based on the result of our study, it is prudent for the clinician to put more effort in order to deliver efficient treatment protocols and glean this evidence to improve patient’s perception and acceptance for this treatment.