Training in Implantology and Decision-Making Practices Regarding Edentulism: An Internet-Based Survey

Area of Science:

• Dental Science
• Prosthodontics
• Implantology

Background:

• Edentulism affects a significant portion of the adult population.
• Treatment options for edentulous patients range from conventional complete dentures to implant-supported restorations.
• Understanding current clinical practices and the rationale behind treatment choices is crucial for improving patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the first-choice treatment options for edentulous patients.
• To investigate the rationale behind these treatment recommendations among French dental clinicians.
• To identify factors influencing the choice between complete dentures and implant-based solutions.

Main Methods:

• An internet-based survey was distributed to 2,000 dental practitioners in France.
• Data were collected from July to December 2018.
• 310 questionnaires were analyzed to assess treatment preferences for edentulous patients.

Main Results:

• Complete dentures were the majority choice for maxillary edentulism (59.7%).
• Implant overdentures were preferred for mandibular edentulism (45.2%).
• Further training in implantology significantly increased the likelihood of proposing implant therapy for both arches.

Conclusions:

• The choice between complete dentures and implant restorations for edentulous patients is influenced by practitioner training and specific skills in implantology.
• Factors such as clinician gender and years since graduation also played a role in treatment recommendations.
• Clinical decision-making for edentulous patients is multifactorial, involving expertise and potentially patient-related factors like comfort and stability.