Abstract

Background: The growing success of dental implants has made this treatment mode increasingly more popular for the replacement of missing teeth. The aim of this study was to assess public awareness and determine patient’s expectations concerning dental implants through requisite information on treatment mode, prior to presenting for professional consultation on dental implant, as a treatment option. Materials and methods: In a cross-sectional survey, 527 adult participants were interviewed, through random selection from attendance at public places. A structured questionnaire, with multiple-choice questions, was used to obtain the participants' level of knowledge on dental implants, including the source of information on which they based this knowledge, their reasons to accept or reject dental implant treatment, as well as their understanding of the procedures involved. Results: In all, (96.4%) of participants had heard of dental implants, and (79.2%) were willing to learn more about dental implants. Almost, two-third (64.9%) of the respondents thought dental implant to be the healthiest treatment mode for missing teeth. Maximum (33.9%) participants gathered dental implants information through media, followed by friends or social gatherings (24%), dental clinics (23.3%), and family (18.8%). Significantly more females than males, and more Kuwaitis than non-Kuwaitis expressed, ‘Good looking’, the reason for acceptance for dental implants (p<0.05). Conclusion: This study revealed a high level of awareness among public, but lack of knowledge on procedural aspects. The study also revealed the need for specialists in this field to spread awareness and relevant information concerning dental implants among the general public.

Keywords: Dental implants; Public awareness; Acceptance; Information sources