Trends in implant dentistry: Implant systems, complications and barriers in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

BACKGROUND: Patients who are partially dentate or edentulous can receive both conventional and implantsupported fixed prostheses, which leads to improvement in function, esthetics and self-esteem. Currently, implant dentistry is one of the fastest-growing disciplines in dentistry. OBJECTIVES: The aim of the study was to assess the education and training of dentists practicing implant therapy in the Riyadh region of Saudi Arabia, including their preferred dental implant systems, the clinical complications experienced as well as the barriers to implant therapy they encounter. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A self-administered questionnaire was distributed among dentists in Riyadh performing dental implants in both the state and private sectors. The questionnaire included demographic data, such as nationality, the practitioner's affiliated specialist category and their respective qualifications. Other data included their main sources of education pertaining to implant dentistry, the most commonly used implant systems, common clinical complications, and barriers to implant therapy. A descriptive statistical analysis of the data was carried out. RESULTS: A significant majority of non-Saudi dental practitioners were employed in the private sector (p = 0.001), whereas a significant majority of Saudi dental practitioners were employed in the state sector (p = 0.001). The largest group of practitioners performing implants were general dentists (48.1%). The 3iTM implant system was the most widely utilized (35.4%). Failed osseointegration (12.6%) and peri-implantitis (12%) were the most common clinical complications. The biggest barrier to placing implants was the cost of implants to patients (59.1%). CONCLUSIONS: Fundamental to implant practice is the clinical practitioner and patient selection. The utilization of implant systems should preferably be based on the chemical properties of implant surfaces which promote early osseointegration. Comparative studies investigating the reasons for failed osseointegration and other clinical complications are needed locally and internationally. Further research, together with advanced clinical specialist training, can lead to improvement in the quality of implant therapy for the benefit of patients.