Predilection and Knowledge in Implant Dentistry Teaching among Dental school Final Year Students and General Practitioners in the Klang Valley of Malaysia

Dental implants are a widely used treatment option with favourable long-term results. However, implants may fail due to mechanical or biological complications, necessitating sufficient knowledge and training in implant dentistry among dental professionals to manage these issues effectively. The knowledge, and perceptions of training received related to dental implant among dental students and general practitioners (GPs) was decided and cross-sectional study was conducted with 212 GPs and 186 final-year dental students, totalling 398 respondents. A questionnaire comprising 11 questions (7 on basic knowledge, 2 on perceptions of training, and 2 on preferred training strategies) was administered. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests with SPSS (version 26). The majority of students (61.3%) and GPs (50.5%) reported being moderately informed about dental implants, with a significant difference in knowledge levels (p=0.04). A smaller proportion of students (22%) and GPs (28.8%) considered themselves well-informed. A substantial 69.6% of respondents felt they received insufficient information on implant-based procedures, and 95% desired more information during their undergraduate studies. Regarding preferred training methods, 45% favoured a modular or one-year course led by implant experts. General practitioners have a higher knowledge level of dental implants compared to final-year students. However, both groups reported inadequate training during their undergraduate education and expressed a preference for additional training, particularly through modular courses. Enhancing the dental curriculum to include specialized, expert-led training modules could bridge the knowledge gap and improve competency in implant dentistry.