Prevalence and Knowledge of Dental Implants among Saudi population in Ar Rass, Saudi Arabia

Background: Since dental implants have favorable long-term effects in the rehabilitation of partly or completely edentulous people, they have emerged as a crucial therapeutic option. The focus of this study was to determine the prevalence of dental implants and to assess the knowledge of patients toward implant among Saudi people residing in Ar Rass, Saudi Arabia. Materials and Methods:  About 190 Saudi patients of both sexes, aged above 18 years, were recruited and the knowledge about implant were assessed using a self-administered validated questionnaire comprising of 18 questions. After that the patients were clinically examined for single-tooth implant, Implant overdenture and Implant-supported fixed partial denture. Results:Concerning the prevalence of implants, 38 patients had at least one implants. In those 28 patients had single tooth implants, 3 patients with implant-supported fixed partial denture and 2 patients with implant supported complete denture. Regarding the knowledge about implants, 53.33% of participants have heard about the implants through the dentist and 89.83% prefer to place dental implants to replace their missing teeth. About 79.20% know the exact area where the dental implants were placed. A good number of respondents (62.66%) mentioned the cost as the major disadvantage for dental implants. Conclusion: Most of the participants have single tooth implant followed by fixed partial and implant supported denture. The patients have knowledge and awareness regarding dental implants but still need continued education of the general public in conjunction with dental implants.