Factors associated with discontinuation and resumption of implant maintenance therapy

Abstract

Discontinuation of implant maintenance is the main risk factor for implant failure. The purpose of this study was to identify factors associated with previous discontinuation and resumption of maintenance among implant patients. A questionnaire survey was sent to 171 patients receiving implant maintenance at a university hospital; 169 patients responded. To assess the effect of job status, 26 patients (15.4%) with a history of maintenance discontinuation were classified as employed and nonemployed. The main reasons for previously discontinuing maintenance were work issues (in employed respondents) and dissatisfaction with treatment skill or chairside manner (in nonemployed respondents). The main reasons for resuming maintenance were those related to dental treatment (in employed respondents) and awareness of the importance of maintenance (in nonem-ployed respondents). There were significant differences in relation to job status in the reasons reported for discontinuing and resuming maintenance (both P < 0.05). The present findings suggest that oral health professionals should consider these factors when assisting patients in reducing the risk of implant failure.