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Submitted
17 December 2024
Accepted
21 January 2025
Published
25 March 2025
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Abstract

Background: A main concern in preventive dentistry is the lack of awareness on the importance of preventive oral health care and the economic influence of applying these measures when compared to seeking treatment only when needed. This study aimed to assess the level of awareness and knowledge of dental professionals and the general population regarding the economic value of preventive dentistry. Methods: A survey questionnaire was distributed to assess the respondents’ socio-economic attributes, dental health knowledge, awareness of the cost of dental care services, and attitude towards preventive dental treatment. The level of knowledge was measured using an additive method, and the reliability of the variables was analyzed using the Cronbach alpha model. The relationships of the variables were measured using Chi-square test, independent t-test, and one-way ANOVA with the Least Significant Difference test as Post-Hoc analysis. Results: The knowledge scores with respect to education levels, types of residency, income, employment status and their involvement in the dental field were all found to have statistically significant differences. Those in high socio-economic standing and those associated with the dental field agree that regular dental visits can save more money than visiting dentists only when needed. Conclusion: This study defined the relationship between the respondents’ socio-economic status and their knowledge of the economic cost of preventive dentistry and subsequent attitude towards it. The general population is well-informed on the economic value of preventive dentistry; however, the problem lies with the application of this knowledge.

Keywords

preventive dentistry oral health care knowledge awareness

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Kayal, R. A., AlSayrafi, E. F., Albarakati, M. N., Baroom, N. A., & Hassan, R. M. (2025). Perceptions of Preventive Dentistry’s Economic Value: A Study Among Jeddah’s Dental Professionals and the General Population. Journal of Contemporary Dental Sciences, 2(1), 10–20. Retrieved from https://jcds.qu.edu.sa/index.php/JCDS/article/view/2360
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