Knowledge, awareness and perceptions of dental implants among patients at the University of Nairobi Dental Hospital

Abstract

Objective: To determine the knowledge, awareness, and perceptions of dental implants among patients attending the University of Nairobi Dental Hospital

Design: Descriptive cross-sectional studySetting: This study was conducted at the University of Nairobi Dental Hospital

Subjects: One hundred and three patients attending the hospital

Materials and Methods: Through systematic random sampling, every second patient attending two clinics at the University of Nairobi Dental Hospital was recruited. An interviewer administered questionnaire was used to collect data on respondents' sociodemographic information, knowledge, awareness, and perceptions of dental implants. The data was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25. Frequencies and statistical inferences were made to assess the association of the independent and dependent variables.

Results: The response rate from 103 study participants was 100%. The majority of the participants were: aged between 20-39 years (68.0%), male (53.4%), and residents of urban regions (81.6%). Many participants, 68%, had a tertiary level of education, and 86.4% had a monthly income of less than Ksh. 50 000 (360 USD). A high level of knowledge was seen in 69.9% of the participants (n=72) while low knowledge levels were seen in (30.5%) of the population (n=31). Most of the study participants positively perceived dental implants (63.1%).

Conclusion: There is relatively good knowledge and perceptions of dental implants. However, the level of awareness on the cost and treatment procedures involved is low.