Awareness, Knowledge, and Acceptance of Dental Implants among the Geriatric Population of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

BACKGROUND: Dental implants (DI) are gaining popularity among the general population, and special consideration has been given to the geriatric population in the replacement of missing teeth subject to their medical stability. The study aimed to assess the awareness, knowledge, and acceptance regarding DI among the geriatric population of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. METHODOLOGY: A cross-sectional survey was carried out through face-to-face interviews using a pretested and standardized questionnaire by calibrated interviewers. Participants of age >58 years who have not undergone any implant or bone graft procedures attending different prosthodontic clinics in Jeddah were recruited according to availability after obtaining consent. Responses received were converted into digital format and subjected to statistical analysis. RESULTS: The knowledge related to DI was not satisfactory, and only 4.5% showed good knowledge. The willingness to replace the current prosthesis with DI was found in 49.6%, and it was also observed that 40% of the participants were using some tooth-supported fixed dental prosthesis. Only 41.3% and 31% were aware of bone graft and sinus lift procedures related to DI. CONCLUSION: Even though most participants were aware of DI, the knowledge related to it was little satisfactory. Older people should be appropriately explained about the best treatment choice for teeth replacement by connecting to their current systemic health condition with its benefits and long-term effects. Unexpectedly, the awareness related to bone graft and sinus lift procedures related to DI was found to be relatively acceptable as well as the willingness to accept bone graft if needed for DI placement was observed.