Patients' Awareness toward Implant-supported Prosthesis: An Observational Study.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Implant-supported prosthesis has high predictability and success and improves quality of life. This study aims at assessing awareness among the patients regarding implant-supported prosthesis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 391 study participants. A structured questionnaire was distributed to assess implant-related awareness among the study participants. The questionnaires were analyzed for the responses. RESULTS: Among the 391 respondents, 37.5% of the respondents reported having moderate knowledge regarding the tooth replacement options. Nearly 50% considered implants as a viable treatment option. The majority of them enlisted the dentist as the major source of information regarding implants, and media had a share of about 7.03% only. High cost was a major barrier in selecting implants as a treatment option. CONCLUSION: This survey showed that awareness among people was low regarding the dental implants. Efforts need to be directed to increase the awareness levels by utilizing media as a tool to achieve the target. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: A patient who is aware of the advantages of the implant-supported dentures will make an informed decision for better functional stability and retention of the denture, especially in the mandibular arch.