Patients' Knowledge and Perceptions Towards Digital Technologies in Dentistry: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Digital Health
• Patient Perception

Background:

• Digitalization in dentistry is reshaping patient acceptance of modern treatments.
• Evaluating patient knowledge and attitudes towards digital dental technologies is crucial.
• A patient-centered approach within routine clinical settings is adopted.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess patient knowledge and attitudes towards digital technologies in dentistry.
• To understand factors influencing the acceptance of digital dental treatments.
• To inform the implementation of patient-centered digital dentistry.

Main Methods:

• A structured questionnaire was administered to 397 participants.
• Non-parametric statistical methods (Mann-Whitney U, Kruskal-Wallis, Spearman) were used for analysis.
• Systematic sampling and instrument validation were employed to ensure reliability.

Main Results:

• Patients generally accept digital dental technologies.
• Perceptions of cost, prior digital experience, and education level significantly impact acceptance.
• Patient-clinician relationship duration, dental health, and treatment history also influence acceptance.

Conclusions:

• Patient-friendly communication is vital in digital dentistry.
• Findings support the implementation of patient-centered digital dental care.
• Future efforts should focus on educational materials, digital literacy, and equitable access.