Contemporary dental implant knowledge and attitude: A perspective of budding dentists

Abstract

Background: Implantology has now penetrated and become a significant part of mainstream dentistry and is here to stay. Although a number of cost-effective implant system being available in India, implant practice requires in-depth acquaintance and skillful competence. It is the need of the hour that a more structured clinical training including some patient treatment be taught in the undergraduate curriculum. The purpose of the present study was to assess the awareness of implants among interns from various colleges across Ahmedabad city and changes in perception of undergraduates toward implantology over 3 years. Materials and Methods: A questionnaire-based survey was conducted among interns from various dental colleges across Ahmedabad city in 2013 and 2016 to assess the changing trends in knowledge and attitude toward implantology. Results: A total of 600 questionnaires were distributed, 300 each in 2013 and 2016. Nearly 74%–75% of interns were aware about the implant procedure in both the phases of the study. Approximately 80% admitted their inability to perform implant procedure independently due to lack of professional training. Around 50% agreed to introduce and include implantology as a separate subject in BDS. curriculum. Conclusion: The present study suggests that there is a very minimal change in the perceptions and knowledge of dental interns toward implantology over 3 years due to minimal exposure to implant dentistry throughout their BDS. They were not satisfied by the lack of knowledge and welcomed the suggestion of introducing implantology as a separate subject in the BDS curriculum.