Knowledge and Awareness of Dental Implant Treatment versus Fixed Partial Dentures

A dental implant is a surgical fixture that forms an interface with the jaw bone to support dental prostheses, including crowns, bridges, dentures, and facial prostheses; it can also act as an orthodontic anchor. A treatment for replacing missing teeth, a dental implant can last for the long term and requires adequate care and hygiene compared to fixed partial dentures (FPDs). Implant success relies on the strength of the individual who accepts this treatment, drugs that influence osseointegration odds, and oral tissue health. FPDs are prone to various complications including debonding, gingivitis, periodontitis, secondary caries, occlusal trauma, pulpal necrosis with associated periapical disease, and prosthesis fracture that usually occurs due to the porcelain material. In cases for which a fixed or nonremovable bridge has been planned, a temporary replacement is used until the permanent bridge is inserted. The aim of this study is to provide knowledge and awareness regarding dental implant treatment versus FPDs. A 15-question survey was completed by 250 Chennai, India participants; results were analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences software; and each output variable is depicted with a pie chart and bar graph. Results of the questionnaire show that 68.4% of participants are aware of dental implants, and 62.8% are moderately informed. For 62.4%, the source of information about implants or FPDs was from dentists. Our results find that the majority of questioned subjects are aware of dental implant treatment for replacing missing teeth, including implant uses, advantages, and disadvantages.