Determinants of Public Knowledge About Root Canal Treatment: A Cross-Sectional Survey of Croatian Adults

Aim: Root canal treatment preserves the natural tooth and avoids the consequences of extraction, yet its acceptance depends on public knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions. This cross-sectional online survey assessed the knowledge, attitudes, and experiences of Croatian adults recruited online via social media regarding root canal treatment and their association with sociodemographic characteristics. Material and Methods: A self-administered questionnaire (38 items, including an eight-item true/false knowledge scale) was distributed via social media between March and June 2025, and 1004 adults were included. Data were analyzed using the chi-square test or Fisher’s exact test and logistic regression (p < 0.05). Results: The mean knowledge score was 5.60 ± 2.45 of 8. Participants with prior endodontic experience scored higher (6.36 vs. 5.15) and answered all knowledge items correctly more often (p < 0.001). In logistic regression, a higher level of knowledge was associated with female sex (OR = 1.78, 95% CI 1.34–2.36), older age, affiliation with a medical profession (OR = 3.16; 95% CI 2.32–4.32), prior endodontic experience (OR = 2.91; 95% CI 2.18–3.90), and considering the preservation of natural teeth important. Among treated participants, the level of knowledge did not differ significantly by the type of clinician who performed the treatment. Although fear and misconceptions (e.g., that the procedure is painful) were common, 88.3% of treated participants would recommend it. Conclusions: Overall knowledge was moderate rather than low. Targeted public education—delivered primarily through the dental office and reinforced by popular-science and social-media campaigns addressing treatment indications, the role of the endodontist, and misconceptions about pain—could reduce misconceptions and support the preservation of natural teeth.