Perspectives and practices regarding periodontal diseases among dentists in Greece: A cross-sectional, mixed-method, nationwide survey.

BACKGROUND

The clinical field of periodontology encompasses the prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and long-term maintenance of periodontal diseases. The aim of this study is to explore the perceptions and practices of Greek dentists regarding all aspects of periodontology in their daily clinical practice.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

In this cross-sectional, mixed-method survey, an online questionnaire was emailed through the regional dental associations to all active dentists in Greece. The questionnaire addressed demographic characteristics, as well as perspectives and practices related to periodontal diagnosis, treatment, maintenance, and the need for collaboration with periodontists.

RESULTS

Overall, 522 dentists (50.6% females) participated. Among the 406 general dentists (GD), 81.7% (332) feel quite or very comfortable in diagnosing periodontal diseases; 73.6% (299) perform only steps 1, 2 and 4 of periodontal therapy, while 9.9% (40) also perform step 3 (surgical interventions); 63.1% (253) have an organized recall system; 92.8% (376) give oral hygiene instructions to all patients; 42.6% (173) identify indications for soft and hard tissue grafts; and 75.7% (306) refer patients to a periodontist. The open-ended question regarding the reasons for such a referral revealed the following issues: disease severity, medical history complexity, and small financial incentive.

CONCLUSIONS

GD in Greece are confident in diagnosing periodontal diseases and predominantly provide nonsurgical therapy. Further training is necessary to increase awareness regarding the current classification system for periodontal diseases and the indications for periodontal grafting. Finally, dentists should be encouraged to record periodontal parameters and motivate patients to comply with recall visits.