Dental implant use in New Zealand: A 10-year update.

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to explore changes in dentists' promotion and use of implants in New Zealand over the past 10 years.

Methods: A postal survey was conducted of a random sample of 807 New Zealand registered dentists, using a 23-item questionnaire adapted from one used in a similar survey in 2004.

Results: The participation rate was 54.3%. In the past 10 years, the percentage of dentists providing an implant service has increased from 49.4% to 68.0%, with an equal proportion of females now providing this service. Single missing teeth (56.9%) and trauma (51.5%) are the most common clinical situations in which implants are provided. Patient enquiries about implants have slightly increased. A need for continuing education, particularly in the area of implant prosthetic procedures, was noted by 76.5%. Despite more proprietary implant systems now being available, the most commonly used system has remained unchanged. Cost is still the primary barrier to implementing implant treatment.

Conclusions: Although dental implant use in New Zealand has increased, it appears that a need exists for continuing education, particularly for implant prosthetic procedures. The perceived expense of treatment continues to hinder optimal utilisation.