Perception and Understanding of Greek Dentists on Periodontal Regenerative Procedures: A Questionnaire Based Study

Objectives: The aim of this cross-sectional questionnaire study was to evaluate the perception and preferences of Greek dentists who either specialised in or had an interest in periodontal regenerative procedures and to compare the results with corresponding findings from two previous studies from different countries. Materials and methods: The questionnaire was divided in two main sections and included multiple choice and/or open/closed questions. The first section consisted of six questions and was designed to collect demographic data of the sample and the second section, consisting of 15 questions, included general questions regarding periodontal regeneration procedures and questions based on specific clinical cases. 200 questionnaires were distributed at selected venues in Greece by the investigators. The participants were given one month to complete and return to the questionnaires to the School of Dentistry in Thessaloniki. Statistical analysis: Data management and analysis was performed using both Microsoft Excel 2007® (Microsoft Corporation, Reading, UK) and SPSS® version 22.0 software (IBM United Kingdom Ltd, Portsmouth, UK). Frequencies and associations between the demographic profiles of the participants were evaluated and presented in the form of frequency tables, charts, and figures. Results: 104 questionnaires (67 males, 37 females: mean age 43.2 years [±9.8]) (52% response rate) were received. Of those who responded 56.7% (n=59) specialized in Periodontics and 43.3% (n=45) specialized in a variety of other dental disciplines (General Dentistry, Oral Surgery and Implantology). Guided tissue regeneration procedures and the use of enamel matrix derivative were recommended for the reconstruction of bony defects and both subepithelial connective tissue graft and coronally advanced flap with or without enamel matrix derivative were the most popular choices for root coverage. Smoking was considered a contraindication by most of the participants and conflicting responses were given regarding the use of antibiotics as part of the post-operative care following regenerative procedures.