Dental implant treatment from the patient's perspective: a descriptive, survey-based cohort study

Aims: The aim of this study was to assess the participants' general knowledge and awareness about dental implants. Methods: 550 voluntary participants over 18 years of age with or without missing teeth were applied to our clinic in 2024. The questionnaire was designed as multiple-choice. Results: 550 volunteers, 282 females (51.19%) and 268 males (48.81%), participated in the study. 428 participants reported having missing teeth, while 120 participants reported having no missing teeth. Most participants (84.9%) thought missing teeth should be treated, while 14.2% thought missing teeth should not be treated. While 23.1% of the participants thought they had sufficient information about dental implants, 70.9% knew dental implants were a treatment alternative for missing teeth. While 41.6% of the participants stated that they obtained their current knowledge about dental implants from dentists, the rate of obtaining information from friends and relatives was 26.7%. 53.3% of the participants stated they feared dental implant treatment. Participants noted that the most positive factor affecting their decision to have dental implant treatment was better chewing, with 26.6%. Participants noted that the biggest challenge in choosing dental implant treatment was the high cost, 44%. 60% of the participants said oral, dental, and maxillofacial surgeons were the most qualified for dental implant treatment. Conclusion: The study's results show that the level of awareness about dental implant treatment has increased but is still insufficient. Therefore, dentists should inform patients more about dental implant treatment to increase awareness further