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Evaluation of Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Regarding Dental Implant Maintenance among Dental Professionals: A Cross-Sectional Questionnaire Study

Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: A BSTRACT Background: Dental implants are a widely accepted treatment modality for replacing missing teeth, but their long-term success relies significantly on maintenance protocols. This study aims to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding dental implant maintenance among dental professionals, emphasizing gaps and areas for improvement. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional questionnaire-based survey was conducted among 200 dental professionals in Maharashtra, India. The self-administered questionnaire consisted of 25 questions divided into three domains: knowledge, attitudes, and practices. Participants were categorized based on their specialization (general dentists, periodontists, prosthodontists, and oral surgeons) and years of clinical experience. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used for data analysis, with a significance level set at P < 0.05. Results: Out of the 200 participants, 80% demonstrated adequate knowledge regarding implant maintenance, with periodontists scoring the highest (90%). Positive attitudes toward the importance of implant maintenance were observed in 70% of the participants. However, only 60% reported routinely incorporating implant maintenance protocols into practice. Common barriers included lack of time (40%) and inadequate patient awareness (35%). A significant association was observed between years of clinical experience and adherence to implant maintenance protocols ( P = 0.03). Conclusion: The study highlights a disparity between knowledge and practice regarding dental implant maintenance among dental professionals. While knowledge levels are commendable, practical application requires reinforcement. Focused training and awareness programs can bridge this gap, enhancing patient outcomes.
Language: English
Subfield: Oral Surgery
Field: Dentistry
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $250
OpenAlex ID: W4409993237
FWCI: 0.882
Cites: 7
Cited by: 1
Related to: 10