Every generation has a different set of expectations and needs from their clinician. The ways to bridge this generational gap effectively and treat every type of patient optimally should be investigated.

The aim of this cross cetinal study is to categorize patients who seek clinical care according to their generations, thus creating awareness of generational differences among dentist.

A research study covering a 5-year period from 2014 to 2019 was conducted among the patients treated at Atatürk University’s Department of Prosthetic Dental Treatment. These patients were categorized according to the generations they belong to.

In the study, 46.8% of the participants were male, while 53.2% were female. The study included 3.1% of the silent generation, 24.7% of baby boomers, 50.3% of Generation X, 20.5% of Generation Y, and 1.3% of Generation Z. The average age was 51.22, with the youngest participant being 12 and the oldest being 98.

The data were analyzed using IBM SPSS V23. In comparing gender across age groups, the Pearson Chi-Square test was utilized and examined with Bonferroni corrected Z-tests for multiple comparisons. Analysis results were presented as frequencies (percentages) for categorical variables and as mean ± standard deviation and median (minimum - maximum) for quantitative variables. The significance level was set at p<0.050.

The treatment needs, treatment expectations, and problems presented by each generation vary. When communicating with different generations, paying attention to the smallest details can
be beneficial in every aspect. Understanding patients’ concerns and showing empathy towards their experiences is considered important in bridging generational differences. Modern dental tools can be used to effectively inform patients about their oral health, which can help bridge the generational gap between dentists and patients.

Keywords: Generations, dental care, age groups, communication, dentist, patient, generation gap