1Professor & PG Guide, Department of Periodontology, SMBT Dental College and Hospital, Sangamner, Maharashtra
2PG Student, Department of Periodontology, SMBT Dental College and Hospital, Sangamner, Maharashtra
3PG Student, Department of Periodontology, SMBT Dental College and Hospital, Sangamner, Maharashtra
4Senior Lecturer, Department of Periodontology, Yashwantrao Chavan Dental College, Ahilyanagar, Maharashtra
5PG Student, Department of Periodontology, SMBT Dental College and Hospital, Sangamner, Maharashtra
6PG Student, Department of Periodontology, SMBT Dental College and Hospital, Sangamner, Maharashtra
Introduction: Dental implants are a widely accepted solution for tooth loss, offering predictable long-term outcomes and improved quality of life. However, the longevity of implant therapy largely depends on patient adherence to maintenance protocols and professional follow-up. This study aimed to assess patient's perceptions and practices related to implant maintenance and their compliance with recommended care routines.
Materials and Methods: A pilot cross-sectional questionnaire study was conducted using a self-structured, validated tool comprising 17 items. A total of 262 patients who had received implant therapy at the Department of Periodontology, SMBT Dental College were included. Data were collected via structured telephonic interviews and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics.
Results: Among the participants, 97.3% reported receiving instructions on implant maintenance, and 97.7% were informed about the necessity of regular professional care. Despite this, only 33.2% believed that implants require more care than natural teeth. While 93.8% reported altering their hygiene practices after implant placement, only 81.6% received guidance on managing bleeding around implants. Additionally, 22.5% experienced complications post-treatment, underscoring the importance of ongoing patient education.
Conclusion: Although overall awareness of implant maintenance was high, misconceptions persist regarding the need for specialized care. These findings highlight the need for continuous, targeted patient education and regular follow-up to support long-term implant success.
Keywords: Dental implants, patient perception, implant maintenance, oral hygiene compliance, long-term outcomes
How to cite this article: Chacko L, Dighe A, Karmalkar S, MorePatil D, Pawar A, Gandhi R. Patient Perceptions and Practices Toward Dental Implant Maintenance: A Questionnaire-Based Study. Int J Drug Deliv Technol. 2026;16(10s): 1-7; DOI: 10.25258/ijddt.16.10s.1
Source of support: Nil.
Conflict of interest: None