Title: Understanding Patients’ Perspectives on Peri-Implantitis: Knowledge, Attitudes, and Clinical Experiences in a University Setting

Aims: This study aims to assess patients' knowledge, attitudes, and experiences regarding peri-implantitis, comparing those treated in the general dentistry department (GP) to those treated in the periodontics department (PERIO) and prosthodontics department (PROSTH), to identify gaps in patient understanding and evaluate the impact of provider type on patient awareness.

Introduction: 

Dental implants are a widely accepted and effective treatment for partial and complete edentulism. However, a significant gap remains between dental implant professionals (scientists and clinicians) and the general public in understanding implant-related inflammatory conditions. Many patients undergo implant therapy without fully appreciating its long-term implications and maintenance requirements. Even fewer have a clear understanding of the risks for peri-implant diseases and the behaviors that can help prevent or minimize their progression.

Materials and Methods: 

•Study design: A cross-sectional survey study

•Subject: 306 adult patients who had dental treatment experience before and come exclusively from individual departments at the University of Michigan School of Dentistry (104 from GP, 100 from PROSTH, and 102 from PERIO) between March 1, 2025, and May 31, 2025.

•The questionnaires covering oral hygiene habits, awareness of implants, peri-implantitis knowledge, etc. Data were analyzed using pairwise comparisons, post hoc analysis, and logistic regression, with significance set at p = 0.05.

Results: 

Conclusion: 

•Despite widespread familiarity with dental implants, there remains a significant gap in patient awareness and understanding of peri-implantitis.