Progress and trends in patients' mindset on dental implants. I: level of information, sources of information and need for patient information

Knowledge, awareness and decision making of population visiting north indian institute towards dental implant as a treatment modality: a cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVES

The knowledge and awareness surrounding dental implants have significantly increased over the years, driven by advancements in technology, improved educational resources, and increased accessibility to dental care. Despite their widespread use, it is essential to assess the level of knowledge and awareness among patients regarding dental implants. The purpose of the present study is to measure the knowledge, awareness and decision making in dental implant therapy in North Indian population.

SETTINGS AND DESIGN

An analytical closed ended questionnaire based study.

METHODS

A cross-sectional well structured questionnaire survey was conducted amongst 300 out patients randomly either by interview or Google form to assess the knowledge and awareness about dental implant as a treatment modality. There were seven questions which were close ended multiple choice type concerning patient knowledge and 10 questions for assessing awareness and decision making towards dental implants. Date was collected and descriptive analysis was done.

RESULTS

43.67 % of population was either well informed or moderately informed about replacement of missing teeth. For replacement of missing tooth, most of them (83 %) had the knowledge of dental implant therapy. Dentist was the main source of information about implants. 90.67 % studied population believed that implants provide better treatment because of increased chewing efficiency of implants as compared to removable partial dentures or fixed partial dentures. 86.67 % patients thought that implantologist is better qualified that general dental surgeon. 94 % patients were keen to know more about implants. There is non-significant difference in knowledge and awareness as well as decision making for males and females (p<0.05).

CONCLUSION

People have partial knowledge about dental implants and there is need of spreading awareness about implant therapy in the region. Dentist plays a crucial role for dissemination of knowledge. Cost is a constraining factor for this implant therapy to be chosen as a treatment modality.

Age-related knowledge deficit and attitudes towards oral implants: Survey-based examination of the correlation between patient age and implant therapy awareness

BACKGROUND

Implantology, as a recognized therapeutic approach, is gaining prominence. The decision-making process and success of implant therapy are closely linked to patient knowledge and expectations. This study aims to explore the association between age and knowledge regarding oral implants.

METHODS

Participants were categorized into three age groups (ag): ag 1 (35-44 years), ag 2 (65-74 years), and ag 3 (75 years and older). A total of 400 participants per age group were randomly selected using data from the residents' registration office of Berlin, Germany. Structured telephone interviews were conducted between 2016 and 2017, employing a 67-item questionnaire covering awareness, information level, cost estimation, attitudes, and experiences with oral implants.

RESULTS

Despite a low overall knowledge level across all age groups, there was no significant correlation between age and knowledge about oral implants. Awareness increased with age. Information sources varied, with friends, acquaintances, and dentists playing key roles. Participants expressed diverse opinions on implants, with durability and stability identified as crucial characteristics. Significant differences in knowledge were observed between age groups regarding awareness, information sources, and perceptions of dentists offering implants.

CONCLUSIONS

The study suggests a need for targeted educational programs, emphasizing age-appropriate information sources to enhance health literacy in oral implantology, particularly among older individuals. Educating physicians on oral implant basics is also crucial. Implementing these measures could empower individuals to make informed decisions about oral implant treatment, thereby contributing to improved oral health outcomes.

Perception, sentiments, and the level of awareness toward the dental implant among general population in Sulaimaniyah City, Iraq

BACKGROUND

Edentulism is one of the most commonly encountered conditions affecting the oral cavity. Dental implants have emerged as a widely accepted treatment option prosthodontically. However, lack of public awareness and the cost of the treatment act as barriers to limit their applicability.

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the perception, sentiments, and level of awareness toward dental implants among the general population in Sulaimaniyah City, Iraq.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A questionnaire-based survey was conducted on 1132 participants in Sulaimaniyah City, Iraq, from February 15, 2023, till August 15, 2023, to collect their sociodemographic data, knowledge and attitudes toward dental implants for their missing tooth/teeth.

RESULTS

The mean age of participants was 41.3 ± 14.6 years, and most (30.7%) belong to the age group 31-44 years. Also, most of them were males (63.6%), married (75.3%), educated (91.3%), from rural areas (82.3%), and had > 1 missing tooth (75%). Regarding the participants' knowledge of dental implants, most had information (78.4%)/heard about it (83.3%), mainly from dentists (43.6%); however, least of them (21.5%) /their family members (43%) had replaced missing teeth by dental implants. Additionally, the participant's attitudes toward the dental implant indicated that most of them were interested in replacing their missing teeth (88.8%) but did not do it due to financial reasons (87%) and considered replacement as a significant (92.5%) and safe process (79.2%). Also, most of them thought there was no substantial difference between artificial and natural tooth appearance/function (47.9%), preferred the delayed implant for dental implant (47.7%), and would like to do an implant due to problems in dental appearance, speech, or dental function (81.5%). Finally, significant/highly significant differences were seen between each participant's factor (age, gender, marital status, education level, and residency) with most items of attitude/awareness toward dental implants.

CONCLUSIONS

Most participants were aware of the knowledge and attitude of dental implants for replacing missing tooth/teeth, especially males, married ones, educated individuals, and those from urban areas; however, financial problems are the main obstacle. Additionally, the delayed implant is preferable for replacing missing tooth/teeth using dental implants among studied individuals.

Retrieval of cement-retained zirconia implant-supported crowns with an Er,Cr:YSGG laser

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM

Cement-retained implant-supported crowns can be challenging to retrieve from the abutment once technical or biological issues arise. Removal traditionally requires sectioning the crown with rotary instruments, which causes irreversible damage to the crown and potential damage to the periodontal apparatus stabilizing the implant.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate an erbium, chromium-doped yttrium, scandium, gallium, and garnet (Er,Cr:YSGG) laser as a minimally invasive alternative for the retrieval of zirconia implant-supported crowns from titanium abutments. Time, temperature, and structural changes to the crown after retrieval were assessed. Appropriate laser parameters were established for this method of crown retrieval.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Twenty zirconia crowns were milled for a maxillary left second premolar based on a CAD-CAM implant analog cast. Ten of these crowns were cemented with a noneugenol zinc oxide dental cement (group Temp) (n=10). The remaining 10 were cemented with a self-adhesive universal resin cement (group Resin) (n=10). Er,Cr:YSGG laser irradiation was performed with the Waterlase iPlus for 1-minute cycles. An attempt was made to remove the crown with a mechanical instrument after each cycle. A type K thermocouple continuously recorded temperature at the level of the abutment. For statistical comparison of decementation time and temperature, the Mann-Whitney test was used (α=.05). Scanning electron microscopy of the nonirradiated and the irradiated crowns was used for analysis of structural and dimensional changes.

RESULTS

A significant difference (P<.001) was found in the time ±standard deviation required to retrieve the crowns between group Temp (02:40 ±00:18 minutes:seconds) and group Resin (05:26 ±00:36 minutes:seconds). A significant difference (P<.001) was found in the mean ±standard deviation temperature recorded between group Temp (24.0 ±1.19 °C) and group Resin (25.7 ±0.66 °C). No structural changes to crowns were observed after irradiation.

CONCLUSIONS

Retrieval of cement-retained zirconia implant-supported crowns with an Er,Cr:YSGG laser is safe and efficient. Crowns luted with zinc oxide dental cement were retrieved significantly faster while maintaining a significantly lower average temperature than those luted with resin cement. Laser irradiation for decementation did not cause structural changes to zirconia implant-supported crowns.

Patient and clinician perspectives on implant dentistry decision aid content: Results from an enhanced Delphi study

PURPOSE

To investigate patient and clinician perspectives on what is considered important to include in a decision aid for replacement of a missing tooth with an implant.

METHODS

An online modified Delphi method with pair comparisons technique was used to survey participants (66 patients, 48 prosthodontists, 46 periodontists, and 31 oral surgeons) in Ontario, Canada from November 2020 to April 2021 regarding the importance of information provided during an implant consultation. Round one included 19 items derived from the literature and informed consent protocols. The decision to retain an item was based on group consensus, defined as at least 75% of participants identifying the item as "important" or "highly important." After analysis of round one results, a second-round survey was sent to all participants to rank the relative importance of the consensus items. Statistical testing was completed using the Kruskal-Wallis one-way analysis of variance test and post hoc Mann-Whitney U tests with a significance level set at p ≤ 0.05.

RESULTS

The first and second surveys had response rates of 77.0% and 45.6%, respectively. In round one, all items except purpose of steps reached group consensus. In round two, the highest group ranked items were patient responsibilities for treatment success and follow-ups after treatment. The lowest group ranked items were cost factors and restorative steps. Significant differences between the stakeholder groups were found on several items, including diagnosis (p ≤ 0.00), non-implant options (p ≤ 0.00), and cost (p ≤ 0.01). In general, patients' opinions were significantly different than clinicians' opinions on the relative importance of items.

CONCLUSIONS

Clinicians and patients feel that multiple items are important to include in a decision aid for implant therapy; however, differences exist between patients and clinicians on the relative importance of items.

Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Patients toward Dental Implants in Need of Prosthodontic Rehabilitation

Background

Our goal in conducting this study was to see how well-informed patients are about dental implants as a method of prosthodontic rehabilitation.

Materials and Methods

"In this cross-sectional study, 500 new dental students were asked questions using a pre-made, self-administered questionnaire. A pilot study was carried out to verify the reliability of the survey instrument. Analysis of the data was performed in SPSS 16 (SPSS). We used the P 0.05 thresholds for the Student's T-test and the ANOVA to determine statistical significance."

Results

In all, there were 500 people involved: 320 men and 180 women. The media and dentists were the two most common places to learn about implants, and as patients received more information, they became more informed consumers. Many people put off getting therapy because of how expensive it is.

Conclusion

Only a small percentage of individuals had implants, and more than half knew nothing about them. This finding also highlighted the need of educating patients more thoroughly on this therapy option. As a result, the public has to be educated about oral health and implants in order to adopt a more favorable perspective.

Knowledge and Perception about Dental Implant and Its Complications among Dental and Medical Students-A Comparative Observational Survey

Introduction

As dental implants become more widely used, there is a need to raise awareness about their potential complications. Professionals in the dental and medical fields must take responsibility for educating the public, and future professionals in these fields will play a key role in this effort.

Methodology

Dental and medical students were polled through online questionnaire, with questions posed in multiple-choice format, to gauge their knowledge of dental implants.

Result

When medical students were compared with dental students, it concluded that the dental students have more knowledge about implants and its complication.

Conclusion

The statistical analysis revealed that the knowledge about basics of implantology and implant complications was good amongst dental students than medical students which was statistically significant.

Assessment of Current Knowledge, Awareness and Attitude Towards Dental Implants as a Treatment Option for Replacement of Missing Teeth in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

OBJECTIVE

To assess the current level of knowledge, awareness, and attitude towards dental implants as a treatment option for the replacement of missing teeth in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

A random sample of 1000 Saudis (including both males and females) from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, was selected. In accordance with research ethics codes, informed consent was obtained from research participants before approaching them via a structured online questionnaire using Google Forms; additionally, questionnaires were distributed in public places and promoted on social media to be answered anonymously. The data were coded, tabulated, and analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS; IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA) software. Descriptive statistics were calculated.

RESULTS

Around more than half of the study population (56.3%) opted for dental implants as a treatment option if they had to choose among the various options, and for those who did not choose dental implants, high cost was the major factor. The Pearson correlation between dental implant information and whether it was provided by their dentists and age was significant, and the majority of those who heard about dental implants are between the ages of 30 and 50. Also, it was noted that many of the participants who were working in the government sector (49.5%) had dental implants and were aware that dental implants as a treatment option were provided by their dentist when compared to those who were working in the private sector (12.1%) and the unemployed (24.7%), and this difference was statistically significant.

CONCLUSION

It was also observed that there is inadequate knowledge regarding the longevity of dental implants, and participants who were working in the government sector had dental implants and were aware that dental implants as a treatment option were provided by their dentist when compared to those who were working in the private sector, and around half are not aware that dental implant treatment can be covered by insurance.

Awareness of Fixed Partial Dentures and Implant Rehabilitation of Missing Teeth Among a Subset of Saudi Population

Background  Maintaining one's sense of self requires having healthy teeth. A person's physical well-being is greatly impacted by their dental health. They are intimately related, and the socioeconomic situation of the individual largely determines how teeth are maintained. As a result, tooth loss causes injury to the stomatognathic system as well as the masticatory function. Morale is negatively impacted by psychological discomfort as well as the reduction in general quality of life brought on by tooth loss. Objectives  The purpose of this study was to assess the awareness of patients about various dental prosthetic rehabilitative procedures in Saudi Arabia, their preference(s) regarding the choice of treatment, and the motivating factors that drive them to avail of dental prosthetic rehabilitative treatment. Methods  After randomly selecting 600 individuals for the purpose of our investigation, a nine-variable questionnaire was framed by investigators to record the responses of those who consented to participate in our study. Results  Only 68.3% of the respondents were found to be aware of the several prosthodontic replacement choices. As mentioned by the majority of the respondents, the cost element was the biggest drawback for replacement. The benefits of choosing fixed partial dentures (FPD) or dental implants were judged to be aesthetics (41.1%) and the feel of one's own teeth (40.1%). Conclusion Only 68.3% of respondents reported knowing about the several prosthodontic replacement choices. The cost aspect was cited by 348 respondents as the biggest drawback to replacement. The perceived benefits of choosing FPD or dental implants were deemed to be aesthetics (41.1%) and the feel of one's own teeth (40.1%). We believe that patients' health and quality of life can be improved by raising awareness about and changing patients' attitudes toward the most cutting-edge treatment options that are readily available. This can be done by educating people about the drawbacks of delaying the replacement of missing teeth and other treatment options.

Perception, awareness, and practice about missing teeth, prosthetic options, and knowledge about dental implants as a treatment modality in the adult population of Jharkhand State: A hospital-based study

Context:

Several options to restore the missing teeth are currently available; however, minimal information is there regarding the tooth loss consequences and knowledge of the various prosthetic options in the Indian population.

Aim:

The aim of this study was to investigate the perception, awareness, and practice about missing teeth, prosthetic options, and knowledge about dental implants among the adult population of Jharkhand state.

Materials and Methods:

A questionnaire-based cross-sectional study was carried out on 400 participants. The questionnaire was divided into two sections, i.e., perception awareness and practice about missing teeth, its consequences, and prosthetic options and the second part was about the knowledge of dental implants.

Statistical Analysis:

Chi-square test was applied for comparison, and P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results:

Maximum numbers of people 178 (44.5%) were interested to get their teeth replaced as a definite requirement. Loss of esthetics as a consequence after tooth loss was known to 72.5% followed by tilting of adjacent teeth (47%). Awareness for prosthetic options available after tooth loss was highest (71.5%) for fixed partial denture's (Bridge). Sixty-three percentage of the studied population had not replaced their missing teeth with any dental prosthesis. Knowledge about dental implants was restricted to a meager of 84 (21%) of the participants. Dentist was the main source of information for dental implants, followed by media.

Conclusion:

Awareness of patients toward missing teeth and its consequences requires more emphasis. Special effort is needed to improve the knowledge of dental implants among the less educated population of this region.

Knowledge and awareness of dental implants among Syrian refugees: a cross sectional study in Zaatari camp

Background

The popularity of implant dentistry is increasing dramatically, but the success of implant treatment depends on a patient’s knowledge and expectations.

Methods

This study aimed to assess dental implant knowledge among refugees as a treatment option (n = 565), using face-to-face interviews. The frequency distribution of the responses in general and according to age, gender and education was calculated.

Results

81.8% of the interviewees had missing teeth, however, only 26.2% replaced them. 16.6% of participants had never/hardly heard about implants. Females who never heard of implants were more than males (P < 0.001). 51.3% of participants described dental implants as a screw, and only 35.4% knew implants were placed in jawbones. 6.2% of respondents reported that implants required more care than a natural teeth, with 47.6% believing that diseases affect implant success. Friends were the main source of information (61.4%). Highly educated participants showed higher knowledge about implants.

Conclusions

The surveyed sample revealed limited knowledge about dental implants with high cost being a major obstacle, warranting more strategies to increase awareness and to make implants more affordable for this population.

Comparing pre- and post-treatment patients' perceptions on dental implant therapy

BACKGROUND

Appropriate patients' perceptions as one of Patient Reported Outcome Measures (PROMs), are shown to be critical for the sustainable success of implant therapy, little is known however of how they prospectively evolve throughout the treatment process.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to prospectively assess patients' perceptions before and after treatment with dental implants and to identify the impact of patients' characteristics on their perceptions.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients' perceptions on implant therapy were prospectively assessed by means of purpose-made questionnaire, rating the extent of agreement/disagreement with a set of statements on a visual analog scale. The questionnaire was collected before initial consultation with the implant dentist and post-treatment at least 1 month after prosthetic loading of the implant. Changes in patients' perceptions were analyzed with the Wilcoxon signed-rank test.

RESULTS

Pretreatment questionnaire was collected from 359 patients. While 245 of them proceeded with implant therapy, 145 received final restoration within the timeframe of the study and completed the post-treatment questionnaires between 1 and 6 months after prosthesis delivery. The most common source of information was dental professions (72.4%). Although patients' perceptions were more realistic at post-treatment, few improper perceptions persisted as only 51% of patients agreed with the statement "There is a chance of dental implant failure," 28% agreed with the statement "Dental implants last longer than natural teeth," and higher percentage of patients agreed with "Dental implant therapy is appropriate for all patients."

CONCLUSIONS

Although patients appear to harbor more realistic perceptions of implant therapy, certain improper perceptions still persist at post-treatment. The design of appropriate patient educational program might be essential to correct misperceptions that might affect long term success of implant therapy. This study had been registered on Thai Clinical Trials Registry (TCTR) with the TCTR identification number: TCTR20181101001.

Knowledge and awareness of dental implants as a treatment choice in the adult population in North India: A hospital-based study

BACKGROUND

Implantology is an emerging field of science, although there are not many subjects who opt for this treatment modality. Replacement of missing or lost teeth with dental prostheses supported by oral implants has been accepted and received positive evaluations from patients who have undergone implant treatment. Today, implant-supported restorations can be considered the treatment of choice from the perspective of occlusal support, preservation of adjacent teeth, and avoidance of a removable partial denture. Currently, dental implants are widely accepted as a prosthetic treatment of completely or partially edentulous patients. This led to widespread acceptance and popularity of dental implants within the dental professional community.

AIM

The aim of this study was to evaluate knowledge, attitude, and awareness of dental implants in residents of Uttarakhand.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total population of 500 subjects were randomly selected and evaluated based on filled questionnaire responses.

RESULTS

A low level of knowledge was observed on analyzing the filled responses among the studied population.

CONCLUSION

General public should be made aware on dental implants as treatment modality along with the focus on increasing the cost feasibility.

Knowledge, Attitudes and Practice of Dental Implants among Dental Interns in Saudi Arabia – A Cross-Sectional Study

Objective:

The aim of the study is to assess knowledge, attitude and practices of dental implants among dental interns in Saudi Arabia

Materials and Methods:

A self-designed, close-ended questionnaire was distributed among 205 interns chosen by stratified random sampling technique. The questionnaire consisted of 28 items pertaining to demographic characteristics, knowledge and practices of dental implants. Responses were coded and entered into spreadsheet software (Microsoft Excel 16.0.) and analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS, IBM Version 22.0) and contingency tables and chi-square test (χ2).

Results:

The majority of the participants were males (64.4%), between 24-26 years of age (64%) and had a GPA between 4-5 (63.4%). The majority of the participants gained knowledge of dental implants through theoretical lectures (98.5%), and most of them (80%) knew, what material, an implant was made up of. Almost all participants (91.7%) knew that dental implants had surface modifications. Most (64.4%) believed that case selection is the most important criteria for the success of dental implant therapy, and this differed significantly among participants with respect to GPA (p=0.03). Many participants (60%) believed that the most important advantage of dental implants over fixed prosthesis is that reduction of adjacent tooth is not needed, and this differed significantly between males and females (p=0.026). There was a significant difference (p<0.001) between males and females when it came to confidence in independently restoring teeth using dental implants. 63% of the participants were confident to use dental implants in their future practice.

Conclusion:

Knowledge of dental implants among dental interns is satisfactory, but this study reveals that participants lack practical experience and would like to acquire more clinical skills.

Limitations:

The response rate of participants from each university was low, which made comparisons between different universities difficult because sample size from some universities was very small, which could not produce statistically accurate results.

Patient and Operator Centered Outcomes in Implant Dentistry: Comparison between Fully Digital and Conventional Workflow for Single Crown and Three-Unit Fixed-Bridge

BACKGROUND

Scientific information about the effects of implant therapy following a precise workflow and patient and operators' preferences should be considered to choose which implant treatment protocol to use, and to achieve patient's satisfaction and functional results. The aim of this study was to analyze implant rehabilitations with a fully digital workflow and compare this approach with a conventional one.

METHODS

This study comprises 64 patients treated with a fully digital approach and 58 patients treated using a conventional protocol. Patient and operator centered outcomes were assessed through two visual analogue scale (VAS) questionnaires.

RESULTS

The VAS questionnaire demonstrated better results for the digital workflow concerning anxiety, convenience, taste, nausea sensation, pain and breathing difficulties (p < 0.0001). The VAS questionnaire administered to the operators showed better scores for the digital approach in relation to anxiety, convenience, difficulties of the impression procedure and the workflow (p < 0.0001). A significant reduced mean time for the digital workflow as well as a reduced number of required visits were recorded.

CONCLUSION

The analysis of a fully digital and a conventional protocol showed better results according to patient and operators' preferences when a fully digital approach was used.

The Influence of Immediately Loaded Basal Implant Treatment on Patient Satisfaction

Background

Improving patient satisfaction and quality of life is of great importance when considering the different prosthetic treatment options for patients with severely resorbed residual alveolar ridges. We aimed to evaluate and compare patients' satisfaction when changing from fixed, removable, and/or conventional implant prostheses to basal implant-supported prostheses.

Methods

Sixty patients with a history of fixed, removable, and/or conventional implant prostheses who received basal implant-supported prostheses (BCS®, IHDE Implant System) were included in this study. Direct interviews were conducted using a four-section questionnaire that covered sociodemographic data, clinical examination, information on previous prostheses, and new implant information. The obtained data were statistically analysed using a Wilcoxon signed-rank test and chi-squared test.

Results

Patients were predominantly female, partially edentulous, and aged between 40 and 59 years. Patients' general satisfaction with basal implants was very high (7.7 out of 8). Patients' satisfaction with comfort, mastication, speech, and aesthetics significantly improved with the new basal implants. Males aged between 40 and 59 years and patients who had previously used both fixed and removable prostheses were generally the most satisfied. Although some patients had complaints, they still had high satisfaction and would choose the same treatment modality again.

Conclusions

Basal implant-supported prostheses have a positive impact on oral health and highly increase patients' satisfaction.

Knowledge and attitude toward replacing missing teeth with dental implants among the Saudi population

OBJECTIVES

To assess the knowledge level and attitude of the Saudi population about the use of a dental implant as a treatment option for replacing the missing teeth.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This cross-sectional study adopted a quantitative approach and used an online questionnaire to collect data. Nine hundred and five participants were recruited as per the inclusion criteria (above 18 years of age, know how to read and write, and technology literate). The collected data were analyzed statistically using IBM Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software.

RESULTS

A low level of knowledge about teeth replacement methods (56%) was recorded among the participant, while 44.4% of them had heard about implant, bridges, and dentures. The oral hygiene of the participants was considered good (59.3%). The main source of information, reported by the participants, was the dentist (53.4%). The knowledge about dental implants was found to be significantly the highest (P = 0.02) among the highly educated participant who had completed postgraduate studies.

CONCLUSION

There is a need for introducing comprehensive orientation programs, conducted by dentists, to communicate knowledge about dental implants. The social campaigns and official information programs should be instigated for improving the knowledge of the patients. Structured programs should be also introduced at an academic level, for enhancing the knowledge related to replacing missing teeth and dental implants.

Using Er:YAG laser to remove lithium disilicate crowns from zirconia implant abutments: An in vitro study

Background

When implants are restored with cement-retained restorations, prosthetic retrievability can be difficult and often requires sectioning using rotary instruments. Sometimes repeated removals of a cement-retained implant crown are needed such as for treatment of peri-implantitis or immediate implant provisionalization. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of erbium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Er:YAG) laser as a non-invasive treatment modality to remove lithium disilicate crowns from zirconia implant abutments following long-term cementation, repetitive debonding and re-cementation, and short-term retrieval.

Material and methods

Twenty identical lithium disilicate crowns were cemented onto zirconia prefabricated abutments using composite resin cement. Ten cemented crowns were removed at 48 hours after cementation as a short-term group (ST), while another 10 were removed 6 months after cementation as a long-term group (LT). To mimicking repetitive recementation and retrieval, the LT crowns were then recemented and removed after 48 hours as a long-term recemention (LTR) group. The LTR crowns were then again recemented and removed after 48 hours as a long-term repeated recemention (LTRR) group. Er:YAG laser was used to facilitate the retrieval of these crowns. recorded and analyzed using ANOVA and t-test. The surfaces of the crown and the abutment were further examined using light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Temperature changes of the abutment and crown upto 10 minutes were also measured and statistically analyzed (paired t-test).

Results

The average times of crown removal from zirconia abutments were 4 minutes (min) and 42 second (sec) in LT to 3 min 24 sec in LTR, and 3 min 12 sec in LTRR and ST groups. LTR took the longest time to remove, statistically (ANOVA and t-test, p < .001). No statistical differences were observed among the removal times of LTR, LTRR, and ST groups (t-test, p = .246, .246 and 1). SEM examination of the material surface showed no visual surface damaging from treatment with Er:YAG laser. The temperatures during irradiation ranged from 18.4°C to 20°C and 22.2°C to 24.5°C (Paired t-test, p < .0001) for the abutment and the crown during irradiation from 1 min to 10 mins.

Conclusions

Long-term cementation can increase time in lithium disilicate crown removal from zirconia abutment using Er:YAG. Er:YAG laser is a non-invasive tool to remove cement-retained implant prostheses and should be considered as a viable alternative to rotary instruments.

Impact of audiovisual information on anxiety and fear in patients undergoing dental implant treatment

BACKGROUND

Few studies have reported the impact of audiovisual implant surgery information on anxiety and fear.

PURPOSE

To investigate the impact of audiovisual information on anxiety and fear in patients undergoing dental implant treatment.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study included 300 patients due to undergo surgery to place a single implant. An interview topic guide and the Krantz Health Opinion Survey (KHOS) survey were used to assess the information patients already had about treatment and how much information they were seeking. Afterwards were randomized into two groups (n = 150): group 1 (verbal information) and group 2 (audiovisual information). Before surgery, anxiety and fear were assessed using State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), Modified Corah Dental Anxiety Scale (MDAS), and Dental Fear Scale (DFS) scales. After treatment, all patients described their satisfaction with the information received with a VAS.

RESULTS

Before receiving information, both groups were homogenous in their knowledge of the implant procedure (P = .825) and the quantity of information sought (KHOS; P = .080). After receiving information, group 2 patients presented more anxiety and fear than group 1 (STAI-State, STAI-Treat, MDAS, DFS; P < .001). After surgery, both groups were equally satisfied with the information received and the need for additional information (P = .689; P = .199, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Audiovisual information generated greater anxiety and fear than conventional verbal information in patients undergoing implant surgery.

Knowledge and perception about dental implants among undergraduate dental students

Introduction

Awareness about dental implants is increasing among dental patients, which demands a higher level of competence for dental students. So, the objective of this study was to assess the knowledge and perception of undergraduate dental students about dental implants.

Materials and methods

This cross-sectional questionnaire-based survey was conducted after taking ethical clearance and approval from the Institutional Review Committee of B.P. Koirala Institute of Health Sciences and informed consent from each dental college of Nepal. The sample included all those students who were present at the time of survey. Data collection were carried out during the academic schedules of the colleges, supervised, and monitored by the investigators themselves. Collected data were coded, entered in Microsoft excel 2013 and descriptive analysis was carried out.

Results

A majority of the total (54.6%) and 59.2% of 5^th year respondents perceived to be moderately well-informed about dental implants. The main advantage of dental implants was thought to be longevity by 53.1% of total and 48.4% of 5^th year students; only 27.6% of the total and 42.2% of 5^th year students said the main advantage of dental implants is they are more conservative than other tooth-replacement modalities. Highest percentage of the total respondents (31.9%) said most important factor for implant success to be implant type and material, whereas 59.8% of 5^th year students said case selection. Those who felt dental implants require additional oral hygiene maintenance and care by the patient and dentist were 58.4% of total and 75.1% of 5^th year students. Over two-thirds (67.5%) of total thought that economic feasibility will limit use of dental implants in Nepal. The difficulty encountered to place implants was perceived to be average by 56.8% of total and 58.1% of 5^th year. There were differences in the perception and knowledge at different academic levels, but not as expected.

Conclusions

It could not be concluded that knowledge about dental implants increased with increase in academic level. Even at the late-clinical year a majority of students gave unsatisfactory responses.

Public awareness, knowledge, attitude and acceptance of dental implants as a treatment modality among patients visiting SDM College of Dental Sciences and Hospital, Dharwad

Background:

The use of dental implants as a prosthetic treatment modality for partially edentulous or completely edentulous patients is increased more commonly ever since the concept of osseointegration has been accepted.

Objective:

The objective of this study is to assess the awareness, knowledge, attitude, and acceptance of dental implants as a treatment modality among patients visiting SDM Dental College, Dharwad.

Materials and Methods:

A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 500 patients visiting SDM College of Dental Sciences and Hospital (SDMCDSH), Dharwad, using a self-explanatory questionnaire.

Results:

A total of 500 individuals participated in the survey. The results of this survey indicate that 93.4% of the patients knew about dental implants, and for majority of them, the major source of information was through their dentist followed by relatives and friends and electronic media. About 60.4% patients disapproved the removable prosthesis as an option for the replacement of missing teeth. 77.2% patients expressed that they could not afford for the dental implant treatment. The major deterioration for this treatment was related to the cost in 80.4% patients, surgical procedure in 11.6% patients, and a long treatment time in 5.6% patients. While 60.4% patients felt that dental implants being expensive, is the treatment option only for the rich.

Conclusion:

The results of this survey showed that majority of the patients visiting SDMCDSH, Dharwad, were aware about dental implants as a treatment modality for the replacement of missing teeth. Although the attitude was positive and they did accept dental implants as a treatment option, the treatment cost mainly was the major reason to take a back step.

Patient Reported Outcome Measures (PROMs) of posterior single-implant crowns using digital workflows: A randomized controlled trial with a three-year follow-up

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this RCT was to analyze Patient Reported Outcome Measures (PROMs) of implant crowns processed in complete digital workflows (test) and combined analog-digital workflows (control) with a three-year follow-up. This is a second reporting from the same trial with sample size calculation based on time efficiency.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Twenty participants were selected for single-tooth replacement with screw-retained crowns in posterior sites (Straumann TL Implant System). Ten patients each were treated with test or control workflows and evaluated after 1 week of prosthetic delivery (baseline) and 3 years. The subjective opinion of the patient was assessed using visual analog scales (VAS) for PROMs; the Functional Implant Prosthodontic Score (FIPS) for the objective evaluation of the dentist. Wilcoxon signed-rank tests and Mann-Whitney U-tests were used for comparisons between test and control with a level of significance set at α = 0.05.

RESULTS

In test and control, implant crowns showed 100% survival without technical and/or biological complications. Mean PROMs varied between 81.6 and 90.3 with no difference between test and control, or between baseline and after 3 years for intra-patient comparison. Linear regression analysis exhibited a significant correlation between FIPS and PROMs related to overall treatment satisfaction (VAS-1: coefficient 0.45; p = 0.0472).

CONCLUSION

Subjective patient's perception (PROMs) of posterior implant crowns processed in complete digital and combined analog-digital workflows revealed comparable high levels of satisfaction on the overall treatment outcome including function, esthetics, and cleanability after 3 years. The objective evaluation of the dentist (FIPS) seems to reflect the perception of the patients.

Preferred Source and Perceived Need of More Information about Dental Implants by the Undergraduate Dental Students of Nepal: All Nepal Survey

Objectives

This study was conducted to know the preferred source and perceived need of more information about dental implants by the undergraduate students of Nepal and their association with academic levels and gender.

Materials and Methods

It was conducted in all the dental colleges of Nepal from June 2016 to June 2017 after taking ethical clearance and approval from the research committee of BPKIHS. It included all those who were present at the time of survey. Data collection was done through a cross-sectional questionnaire survey during the academic schedule of the colleges, supervised and monitored by the investigators themselves. The collected data were coded and entered in Microsoft excel 2013, and statistical analysis was done by SPSS 20 version.

Result

A majority of the respondents agreed that they were not provided with sufficient information about implant treatment procedures during their BDS program (65.3%), would like more to be provided in the curriculum (95.1%), and would like to get additional reliable information from dental consultants and specialists (40.7%) and training on it from fellowship programs conducted by universities (39.2%). Significant association was seen between the responses and academic levels.

Conclusion

Undergraduate dental students of Nepal want more information about dental implants through various means.

Digital technology in fixed implant prosthodontics

Digital protocols are increasingly influencing prosthodontic treatment concepts. Implant-supported single-unit and short-span reconstructions will benefit mostly from the present digital trends. In these protocols, monolithic implant crowns connected to prefabricated titanium abutments, which are created based on data obtained from an intraoral scan followed by virtual design and production, without the need of a physical master cast, have to be considered in lieu of conventional manufacturing techniques for posterior implant restorations. No space for storage is needed in the complete digital workflow, and if a remake is required a replica of the original reconstruction can be produced quickly and inexpensively using rapid prototyping. The technological process is split into subtractive methods, such as milling or laser ablation, and additive processing, such as three-dimensional printing and selective laser melting. The dimensions of the supra-implant soft-tissue architecture can be calculated in advance of implant placement, according to the morphologic copy, and consequently are individualized for each patient. All these technologies have to be considered before implementing new digital dental workflows in daily routine. The correct indication and application are prerequisite and crucial for the success of the overall therapy, and, finally, for a satisfied patient. This includes a teamwork approach and equally affects the clinician, the dental assistant and the technician as well. The digitization process has the potential to change the entire dental profession. The major benefits will be reduced production costs, improvement in time efficiency and fulfilment of patients' perceptions of a modernized treatment concept.

Assessment of information resources for people with hypodontia

Aim:

To assess the adequacy of patient information to support understanding and decision-making for people affected by hypodontia.

Methods:

1) Questionnaire to understand the provision of patient information by dentists; 2) Systematic search to identify online open-access patient information; 3) Quality assessment of written patient information.

Results:

Questionnaire response rate was 49% (319/649); 91% examined and/or treated people with hypodontia. Most general dentists referred patients to specialist services without providing written hypodontia information. The majority of dental specialists provide patient leaflets but less than a third used web-resources. Only 19% of respondents felt current resources were fit-for-purpose. Thirty-one patient resources (18 leaflets and 13 online) were assessed against quality criteria. The aim of the resource was seldom explicit, the content was often incomplete and variation in readability scores indicated high levels of literacy were required.

Discussion:

Access to, and quality of, patient information for hypodontia is inadequate. Current resources are not sufficiently comprehensive to prepare young patients to engage in shared dental care decisions with their parents and/or dental professionals.

Conclusion:

There is a need for improved access to, and provision of, information about hypodontia if dental professionals want to meet best practice guidance and involve patients in shared decision-making.

Provision of information on dental implant treatment: Patients' thoughts and experiences

OBJECTIVES

To explore patients' thoughts and perceptions of information provision regarding dental implant treatment.

METHODS

This generic qualitative study involved 38 semi-structured face-to-face and telephone interviews with 34 participants, who were at different stages of dental implant treatment. The interviews were transcribed verbatim. The data collection and coding process followed the principles of qualitative thematic analysis.

RESULTS

Clinical sources of information were generally trusted by patients; however, patients clearly lacked information relative to their own specific situation, concerns and preferences, and this may lead to patients' reliance on other general sources of information. Crucial information on the long-term prosthesis needs was requested by patients at all treatment stages. Issues concerning the longevity and functional capability of the implant restoration and the long-term maintenance including optimisation of hygiene practice were questioned by patients and required greater explanation.

CONCLUSION

With growing patient interest in implants for replacement of missing teeth, complete and accurate knowledge and understanding of implants should be established with patients. This should be undertaken with more reliance on reliable clinically based sources of implant information.

Knowledge, Awareness, and Attitude Regarding Dental Implants among Dental Interns

INTRODUCTION

Implant therapy is an elective dental procedure of dental rehabilitative treatment. Objective of this study was to assess the knowledge, awareness, and attitude of dental interns of Nepal toward dental implants and to see associations of the responses with gender and geographic location of dental college.

METHODS

It was conducted from June 2016 to June 2017 after taking ethical clearance and approval from the research committee. The sample included the interns who were present at the time of the survey. Data collection was done through a cross-sectional questionnaire survey, during clinical postings of the interns at all the dental colleges of Nepal, supervised and monitored by the investigators themselves; coded and entered in Microsoft Excel 2013 and statistical analysis was done by SPSS 20 version.

RESULTS

A majority of the interns said they are moderately well informed about dental implants 141 (50.36%); main advantage of dental implants is they are conservative 164 (58.6%); most important factor for implant success is case selection 143 (51.07%); the longevity of dental implants is 10-20yrs, 162 (57.85%), 188 (67.14%) agreed that they were not provided with sufficient information and 191 (68.21%) stated that they need more information; 180 (64.3%) felt the difficulty encountered while placing implants is average and 229 (81.78%) stated that they need more hygiene care than natural teeth. There were major differences in the mindset to some other questions. Significant associations were seen with the location of college for some responses.

CONCLUSIONS

A majority of interns have knowledge regarding dental implants, but the percentage of those who gave unsatisfactory answers is also large. They have a positive attitude towards gaining more information through various means.

Knowledge and Awareness Regarding Dental Implants among Patients Attending a Tertiary Care Center

INTRODUCTION

Loss of natural teeth is a debilitating and irreversible process, which leads to functional, cosmetic and psychological morbidities. Dental implant serves as one of the options of tooth replacement, which are stronger, functionally effective and more durable. However, public awareness regarding it has been found to be low in Asian countries. This study was designed to know the status of knowledge and awareness of dental implant.

METHODS

Seventy nine patients visiting dental department of Patan Academy of Health Sciences were included in this study through non-probability sampling. Data on knowledge and awareness regarding dental implants were collected through a survey after ethical approval from Institutional Review committee of Patan Academy of Health Sciences. Data entry was done in Epidata and analyzed with the help of Statistical Package of Social Sciences version 20.

RESULTS

Total 33 (41.8%) of study populations choose dental implant as alternative for replacing teeth, 22 (30.4%) choose fixed dental prosthesis. 36 (45.6%) and 32 (40.5%) of population stated that long treatment time and high cost respectively as the disadvantages of dental implants. Only 12 (15.2%) were aware that dental implants are anchored in jaw bone. The source of information about dental implants was dentists for 48 (60.8%) of the patients followed by friends, media and medical doctors.

CONCLUSIONS

Within the limitations of this study, we conclude that awareness of patients attending tertiary care center of Kathmandu valley is low. Hence, there is a need of organizing dental education programs to create awareness about dental implants.

An Analysis of Patient Perceptions and Expectations to Dental Implants: Is There a Significant Effect on Long-Term Satisfaction Levels?

Here we present an analysis of patient perceptions and expectations to dental implant placement and their prosthetic reconstruction, to then consider whether they have an effect on long-term satisfaction levels. A Post-Treatment Completion Questionnaire was designed to analyse whether patient satisfaction is influenced by age and/or gender; has an effect on patient-reported self-confidence levels; contributes to increased levels of oral hygiene; provides further insight into the average pain levels during and after the surgical intervention; or influences further acceptance of dental implant surgery. And then whether relationships exist between any of these factors. 182 consecutive patients completed the survey: 68 males and 114 females (age mean 64.68 years ± 11.23 SD); the average number of months since treatment completion was 37.4 (males) and 62.6 (females). There is a significant relationship between comfort rating and “how well informed” the patient was (p = 0.015). A significantly positive relationship exists between “considering dental implants in the future” and “overall experience” (p = 0.001). A significantly positive relationship exists between “overall satisfaction with appearance” and “satisfaction with comfort” (p = 0.011). A significant relationship exists between “overall satisfaction with appearance,” “satisfaction with comfort,” and “overall satisfaction with experience” (p = 0.001). The results amplify the need to transmit logical, truthful information to patients when dental implant treatment is being considered. The “fully informed” patient will have realistic expectations that lead to high degrees of satisfaction.

Public and Patient Knowledge About Dental Implants

PURPOSE

The more informed a patient is about a given procedure, the better the ultimate outcome. This study was designed to compare general public awareness and knowledge regarding oral implant treatment with those of patients presenting for such treatment and to determine the sources from which they may have obtained such information, as well as the accuracy of the information.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In this cross-sectional study, 2 groups of patients were asked to complete a questionnaire containing implant knowledge questions and questions regarding any sources they may have used to obtain information about dental implants. Group I consisted of patients presenting for treatment of a dental emergency (general population group), and group II consisted of patients presenting for an implant consultation. The χ² test was used to determine whether there were differences in knowledge and information sources between the 2 groups.

RESULTS

A total of 126 adult patients (76 dental emergency patients and 50 implant consultation patients) participated in the study. The general population group was less informed about dental implants, especially information relating to implant material and longevity, and received information from less reliable sources than patients presenting for implant screening (friends or relatives vs primary dentist). Both groups reported cost of the procedure as a primary barrier to receiving implants (89% and 90%).

CONCLUSIONS

There is still a need for continued education of the general public regarding dental implants.

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

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.

Knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions of undergraduate dental students toward dental implants--an all India survey

PURPOSE

This study aims to gauge the knowledge and perceptions of undergraduate dental students or residents toward dental implants.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The dental colleges in India were divided into 5 zones, and by random selection method, 7 colleges were selected from each zone. Thus, a total of 35 dental institutions were selected, which included 2800 residents. A printed questionnaire consisting of 15 questions, which assessed the level and source of information regarding implants, was prepared and distributed.

RESULTS

A total of 2800 questionnaires were posted of which 2041 responses were received (response rate was 72.89%). This study shows that 81.1% of the residents believed that they were not provided sufficient information and a whopping 91.7% of them coveted more information about implants in their undergraduate curriculum.

CONCLUSION

This study concludes that a revision in the undergraduate dental curriculum is required to make the students better equipped with the technicalities of implant dentistry.

Implant Dentistry in General Practice. Part 1: Introduction

This paper, the first of two, provides an introduction to implant dentistry for the general dental practitioner. CPD/Clinical Relevance: Implant placement and restoration is becoming more common place in general dental practice to the point where it may already be considered a routine treatment option.

Patients' perceptions of implant placement surgery, the post-surgical healing and the transitional implant prostheses: a qualitative study

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to explore patients' thoughts, feelings about, and experiences of, implant placement surgery (IPS), the post-surgical healing stage and the immediate post-surgical transitional implant prosthesis (TIP) (fixed and removable).

METHODS

A qualitative study design was chosen and 38 semi-structured telephone and face-to-face interviews were conducted with 34 patients at different stages of implant treatment. The interviews were transcribed verbatim; the data collection and coding process followed the principles of thematic analysis, which was facilitated through the use of NVivo10.

RESULTS

Patients anticipated that surgery would be painful and unpleasant but were prepared to accept this temporary discomfort for the expected benefits of implant treatment. However, a key finding was that patients felt they had overestimated the trauma of surgery but underestimated the discomfort and difficulties of the healing phase. A number of difficulties were also identified with the TIP phase following implant surgery.

CONCLUSION

Existing research has tended to focus on the longer term benefits of dental implant treatment. This qualitative study has investigated in-depth patients' perceptions of dental implant surgery, including their experiences related to sedation, and of transitional implant restoration. While patients felt their concerns were overestimated in relation to the implant surgery, they experienced greater morbidity than they expected in the healing phase. Recommendations are made for relatively small changes in care provision which might improve the overall patient experience. Partial dentate patients treated with a fixed transitional prosthesis experienced advantages more quickly than patients with an overdenture.

What do patients expect from treatment with Dental Implants? Perceptions, expectations and misconceptions: a multicenter study

OBJECTIVE

While research in terms of patient-centered care in implant therapy is growing, few studies have investigated patients' initial perceptions prior to consultation with the implant dentist. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to capture patients' initial information level, perceptions, as well as expectations from the implant therapy.

METHOD

A 34-item questionnaire was developed to investigate patients' preoperative information, perceptions and expectations from treatment with Dental Implants. The study was conducted in three locations (Hong Kong, SiChuan and JiangSu) during 2014-2015 with 277 patients.

RESULTS

The main information source about implant therapy was the dentist or hygienist for less than half of the patients (n = 113, 42%). About 62.8% of participants considered that they were in general informed about implants, but only 17.7% felt confident with the information they had. More than 30% of the sample appeared to maintain dangerous misperceptions about Dental Implants: "Dental Implants require less care than natural teeth"; "Treatment with Dental Implants is appropriate for all patients with missing teeth"; "Dental Implants last longer than natural teeth"; and "Treatments with Dental Implants have no risks or complications." Patients were divided when asked whether "Dental Implants are as functional as natural teeth" (agreement frequency = 52.7%). Expectations from treatment outcome were commonly high, while there was a significant correlation between the overall mean of perception scores and outcome expectation scores (r = 0.32, P < 0.001). Overall, younger subjects (<45 years) and those with higher education level (bachelor and postgraduate) tended to present more realistic perceptions and lower outcome expectations.

CONCLUSION

The majority of patients in this study presented relatively realistic perceptions. However, an alarming portion of the sample presented with inaccurate perceptions and unrealistic expectations, which the dental team would need to diagnose and correct prior to initiating implant treatment.

Patients awareness and attitude towards dental implants

Aims:

The aim of the study was to assess the awareness of the patients regarding implant-retained prosthesis as an option for tooth replacement and the knowledge about tooth replacement as a whole including source of information and attitude towards it amongst Malaysian population.

Materials and Methods:

Information on demographic characteristics, knowledge about implant as an option for missing tooth replacement, source of information and knowledge about other options of tooth replacement were obtained from patients visiting various dental outpatient departments of hospital and private dental clinics using nationwide self-explanatory survey.

Results:

Amongst the 1013 response retrieved, 27% of respondents felt moderately well informed about the dental implant treatment. Only 9% of the respondents had dental implant treatment before and 17% felt well informed about different alternatives of replacing missing teeth. The dentists were the main source of information regarding dental implant treatment modality followed by friends and electronic media. 55.6% respondents felt implant to be as good as own teeth during function whereas high cost was the major limiting factor for implant treatment.

Conclusion:

56% of Malaysian population was aware of dental implant as an alternative for replacing missing teeth. Necessary efforts and measures should be made to raise the awareness of dental implant treatment in the country.

Impact of a "TED-Style" presentation on potential patients' willingness to accept dental implant therapy: a one-group, pre-test post-test study

PURPOSE

A survey was conducted to assess the impact of a TED-like educational session on participants' willingness to accept dental implant therapy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Volunteers interested in having information about dental implant therapies were recruited and asked to complete a two-part survey before and after an educational session. The initial survey elicited demographic information, self-perceived knowledge on dental implants and willingness to this kind of treatment. A "TED-style" presentation that provided information about dental implant treatments was conducted before asking the participants to complete a second set of questions assessing the impact of the session.

RESULTS

The survey was completed by 104 individuals, 78.8% were women and the mean age was 66.5±10.8. Before the educational session, 76.0% of the participants refused dental implants mainly due to lack of knowledge. After the educational session, the rejection of dental implants decreased by almost four folds to 20.2%.

CONCLUSION

This study proved that an educational intervention can significantly increase willingness to accept treatment with dental implants in a segment of the population who is interested in having information about dental implant therapy. Furthermore, educational interventions, such as TED-like talks, might be useful to increase popular awareness on dental implant therapy.

Patients' expectations to dental implant: a systematic review of the literature

Objective

To examine the current literature on the impact of patients’ expectations on treatment outcomes or final patient satisfaction and to identify the theoretical frameworks, study designs and measurement instruments which have been employed to assess patients’ expectations within implant dentistry.

Methods

A structured literature search of four databases Pubmed, Cochrane, Web of Science and PsychINFO was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. Any type of literature published in English discussing the topic of ‘patients expectations’ in oral health were identified and further screened. Studies reporting on expectations regarding dental implants were selected and a narrative review was conducted.

Results

The initial search yielded 16707 studies, out of which 1051 ‘potentially effective studies’ were further assessed and final 41 ‘effective studies’ were included [Kappa = 0.76]. Ten observational studies, published from 1999 to 2013, dealt specifically with expectations of dental implants. There was a large degree of heterogeneity among studies in terms of assessment instruments. Expectations relating to aesthetics and function were primarily considered. Among the 10 studies, 8 were classified as quantitative research and 2 as qualitative research. The STROBE quality of reporting scores of the studies ranged from 13.5 to 18.0. Three of the 8 quantitative studies employed a before/after study design (prospective studies) and used visual analogue scales (VAS) to measure patient expectations.

Conclusions

There is a growing interest in patients’ expectations of dental implants. Most studies are cross sectional in nature and the quality of reporting varies considerably. Expectations with respect to aesthetics and function are key attributes considered. The use of visual analogue scales (VAS) provides quantitative assessments of patients’ expectations but the lack of standardization of measures prohibits meta- analyses.