Influence of internet use on the dentist–patient relationship and oral health decision-making: A cross-sectional study

Background: The widespread availability of internet-based information has transformed how individuals seek and interpret oral health content. Patients increasingly consult search engines, dental websites, and social media before and after dental visits. While this trend enhances autonomy and engagement, it also introduces risks of misinformation, misinterpretation, and unrealistic expectations that may influence communication and trust within the dentist–patient relationship. Understanding how both groups perceive these digital influences is essential to support effective communication and evidence-based care; therefore, this study aimed to assess and compare the perceptions of dentists and patients regarding the impact of internet-based oral health information on communication, trust, and decision-making in dental practice.

Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 100 dentists and 100 patients aged above 15 years in Chennai between May and July 2024. Data were collected using a structured, English-language questionnaire consisting of seven items. Convenient sampling was employed among eligible participants who provided informed consent. Sociodemographic details were recorded, and responses were categorized as “Agree” or “Disagree” for descriptive analysis.

Results: All 200 participants completed the survey. Patients demonstrated a more favorable perception of online oral health information than dentists. While 45% of patients agreed that the internet is a useful source of oral health information, only 38% of dentists shared this view. Similar proportions reported that online content influenced their thinking regarding oral health (patients 35.5%, dentists 34%). Communication-related perceptions differed: 39.5% of patients believed their dentist was willing to discuss online information, whereas 27.5% of dentists felt such discussions were burdensome. Both groups showed comparable views regarding guidance, with 38% of dentists and 37.5% of patients stating that dentists modify or guide patients based on online information. Concerns about misinterpretation were expressed by 34% of dentists and 37.5% of patients. More patients reported adhering to professional advice after consulting online information (41.5%) than dentists believed their patients did (33.5%). Perceived threat of the internet to the dentist–patient relationship remained low in both groups (dentists 28%, patients 23.5%).

Conclusion: Dentists and patients recognize the growing influence of online health information on oral health behaviors and communication. Patients tend to rely more positively on digital sources, while dentists express caution regarding misinformation and communication challenges. Enhancing digital health literacy, encouraging open dialogue, and guiding patients toward credible online information may strengthen trust, improve compliance, and support a more effective therapeutic partnership in the digital era.