Survey Regarding the Awareness Towards a Dental Specialist Prosthodontist and Their Role in Rehabilitation of Missing Teeth and Maxillofacial Structures, in Gujarat Population

Background: There are numerous challenges related to oral health, that can be effectively treated if patients are well aware about the entire possibilities of treatments, which also tends to increase their acceptance respective to any procedures. This study aims to evaluate the knowledge, and awareness, regarding Prosthodontist and their rehabilitative role. Material and Methods: This study was conducted in Government Dental College and Hospital, Ahmedabad, Gujarat. The target population was divided into four groups based on geography of Gujarat state. Gujarat state is divided into 4 zones, i.e, North Gujarat, South Gujarat East Gujarat, and West Gujarat, in an attempt. Samples were collected by the help of google forms and Physical questionnaire respectively, from each demographic zone. The questionnaire comprised of 12 close ended questions written in English and Gujarati (Regional Language). Data was analysed using the statistical package SPSS 26.0 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL). Results: Total population of 2225 participated. Out of which, 1669 (69.8%) were male and 731 (30.2%) were female. On asking, Majority of the population 1984 (82.7%) was not aware about Prosthodontist as a dental specialty. For the Treatment options considered and number of Treatments known , maximum people i.e., 899 (37.5%) were aware about CD/RPD (Removable Dentures) alone, then CD/RPD, FIXED crown bridge, Dental Implants 784 (32.7%), then Dental Implants alone 326 (13.6%), CD/RPD, FIXED crown bridge, Dental Implants, Maxillofacial Prosthesis 178 (7.4%), then CD/RPD, Fixed Crown /Bridge 117 (4.9%), then CD/RPD, Dental Implants 56 (2.3 %), then Fixed Crown/Bridge 23 (1%), and lastly CD/RPD, Dental Implants, Maxillofacial Prosthesis 17 (0.7%). Conclusion: The Results suggests inadequacy in proper awareness about Prosthodontic, as a specialty and treatment options pertaining to the respective branch. Dental Outreach programs/Awareness camps organized has not yet reached significant portion of Gujarat Population. Key words: Awareness, Prosthodontist, Rehabilitation, Gujarat population.