Background: Appraising patient expectations and misinterpretations about dental implants affects the overall treatment experience and aftermath. This study highlights perceptions of paramount importance in implant success. Purpose: This cross-sectional study aims to acquire the public’s primary perceptions about dental implant therapy. Materials and Methods: A 10-item questionnaire was circulated to a random community group of 454 participants who visited dental clinics in Northern Jordan. The questionnaire covered sociodemographic parameters and perceptions items. Data were analyzed and statistical tests were computed. Results: The survey revealed several key misconceptions about dental implants, many of which vary based on demographics, such as education, age, gender, and income. Around half of the respondents believed implants could not be placed immediately after tooth extraction, reflecting a lack of awareness about modern dental techniques, such as immediate implant placement. Eight percent of the participants, especially the lower education bracket, thought only individuals who had lost all their teeth could receive implants. This indicates a misunderstanding of the broad applications of dental implants, which can be used to replace individual teeth, not just full arches. About 23% viewed implant treatment as risky, painful, and associated with prolonged recovery times. About 33.3% had a belief that implants impose dietary restrictions. This belief was more likely pronounced among men and the younger public. Six percent agree that implants are less durable than other treatment options. In addition, 23% thought implants do not require special aftercare and 5.3%, especially the younger respondents, underestimated the qualifications necessary for performing the procedure. Around 3%, particularly the seniors and middle-aged adults viewed implants as functionally poor and not cost-effective. Conclusion: Though a relatively fair level of awareness about dental implants exists among most of the subjects in this study, some assume various unrealistic perceptions that are devoid of evidence-based and impartial information.
Alhusein et al. (Sat,) studied this question.