(PO-116) Evaluating Teaching in Implant Maintenance in Dental Hygiene Programs

Author: Trever Siu, D.M.D., M.S. – Clinical Assistant Professor, Midwestern University College of Dental Medicine-Arizona
Author: Douglas Beals, D.D.S., M.S.
Author: Vijay Parashar, B.D.S., M.D.Sc., D.D.S.
Author: David Dodell, D.M.D.
Submitter: Trever Siu, D.M.D., M.S. – Clinical Assistant Professor, Midwestern University College of Dental Medicine

Objectives: The aim of this study was to survey program directors of dental hygiene education programs in the US to the extent in which implant maintenance has been incorporated into dental hygiene curricula.

Methods: The study comprised of a 4-question electronic survey emailed to program directors of 330 United States dental hygiene programs. The survey inquired whether implant maintenance therapy was being taught at each institution, as well as, its frequency and whether periodontal probing is performed during a maintenance visit. Lastly, they were surveyed on what clinical and/or radiographic signs around a dental implant would prompt a referral to a specialist.

Results: The response rate was 40%. The results indicated that 92% of the respondents taught implant maintenance therapy in their programs. The most frequently reported implant maintenance intervals was 3-month (76.3%). Varied results were reported when asked what findings would trigger a referral to a specialist. Most respondents answered radiographic bone loss (95.1%), while 40.7% referred when deep probing depths without bleeding were observed.

Conclusions: Dental hygienists are on the forefront of periodontal and implant maintenance in dental offices. The study identified variations in dental hygiene education programs regarding implant maintenance therapy education and the factors that trigger a referral to a specialist. Our survey indicates that of the respondents, many US dental hygiene programs have incorporated implant maintenance as part of their curriculum but with varied results. If peri-implant disease is detected, treatment recommendations can be made promptly which may include the referral to a surgical specialist for treatment, as recommended by the guidelines established by the American Academy of Periodontology. Also recommended is a standardized workflow for implant maintenance examinations to ensure that pertinent information is recorded. This allows for accurate and consistent monitoring of the health of implants by the dental hygienist.