Evaluation of Treatment and Dentist Options for Patients with Toothache in Turkey Using Google Trends

Abstract

Abstract Background: This article aims to explore research conducted by individuals in Turkey using the Google search engine to gather information on treatments for toothaches, specifically extractions or root canal procedures. It also seeks to compare how the preference for researching public dental hospitals or private clinics for these treatments has evolved over time. Materials and Methods: Changes in search terms such as 'toothache', 'root canal treatment', 'tooth extraction', 'private dental clinic', and 'public dental hospital appointment' on Google Trends from May 8, 2010, to November 10, 2024, were analyzed. The study was conducted in Turkey, so the Turkish equivalents of the terms were used in the search. The reasons for these changes and their connections were analyzed. Results: The top searched term online was information regarding toothaches. The peak relative search volume (RSV) for toothaches occurred in April 2020, with tooth extraction and root canal treatment being equally popular during this time. However, globally, tooth extraction was significantly more popular than root canal treatment. In February 2011, the most searches were conducted for "public dental hospital appointment." Conversely, in September 2024, "private dental clinic" was the most searched term. Prior to March 2020, public hospitals garnered more interest, but since then, private dental clinics have become more popular among users. Conclusion: It has been observed that over the years, people in Turkey have become more attentive to oral health and have conducted research on this topic. It can be concluded that they are seeking a reliable dentist for their treatments, rather than any dentist, and are gathering information about the treatments they are going to undergo. Despite the development of implant treatment over time, it can be concluded that patients research root canal treatment as much as tooth extraction.

Keywords

• : Toothache
• Google Trends
• Root Canal Treatment
• Tooth Extraction

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