The integration of digital technologies within the metaverse is reshaping various fields, including dentistry, with the potential to drive significant advancements. This study aimed to investigate the level of knowledge, awareness, and comprehension of dental professionals and students regarding the metaverse's role in dental practice. Conducted as a cross-sectional survey, the research examined familiarity with metaverse-related technologies (such as XR, cloud computing, blockchain, digital twins, and AI) and their perceived impact on patient education, care, and training. A total of 328 participants including undergraduate and postgraduate dental students and faculty members participated in the study. Data collection was facilitated through a questionnaire shared through WhatsApp groups, comprising 28 questions covering demographic details, general knowledge, applications in patient education and care, implementation in dental training, and concluding insights. The findings indicated diverse levels of awareness, with most participants showing keen interest in integrating metaverse technologies into their professional and educational environments. However, concerns surrounding technical skills, data privacy, and security emerged as significant challenges to widespread adoption. These results underscore the importance of structured educational programs aimed at equipping dental professionals with the necessary expertise to harness metaverse technologies effectively, ultimately enhancing patient care and dental education.
