Patient-centered perspectives and feelings on peri-implantitis and its therapy

Peri-implantitis is a common biological complication of dental implant therapy that affects peri-implant tissues as well as patients' psychological well-being and oral health-related quality of life. This review summarizes patient-centered perspectives on peri-implantitis, focusing on patient perception at diagnosis, treatment experiences, and treatment-related discomfort.

A narrative review of the literature was conducted to identify studies addressing patient perceptions, emotional responses, and patient-reported outcomes related to peri-implantitis management. Evidence from qualitative studies, cross-sectional investigations, and clinical trials reporting patient-centered outcomes was evaluated.

The literature shows that peri-implantitis often progresses with minimal or no subjective symptoms, resulting in a discrepancy between clinical findings and patient awareness at diagnosis. Disclosure of the diagnosis is frequently associated with anxiety, stress, and concerns regarding implant prognosis and treatment burden. During treatment, patients commonly anticipate considerable pain and invasiveness; however, actual treatment-related discomfort is generally mild to moderate and transient, with postoperative pain peaking early and resolving within a short period. Patient experiences are strongly influenced by the clarity of diagnostic explanations, expectation management, and the quality of clinician-patient communication.

Peri-implantitis has a measurable psychosocial impact beyond clinical parameters. Patient perceptions at diagnosis and during treatment play a key role in treatment acceptance and adherence.

Many patients are diagnosed with peri-implantitis without prior awareness of the disease. Clear communication regarding diagnosis, expected treatment-related discomfort, and prognosis may reduce anxiety, improve treatment acceptance, and support long-term maintenance care.