Perceptions of Patients and Professionals about the Path of a Patient with Periodontal Disease through the Health-care System

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Periodontal disease or periodontitis is one of the most common chronic diseases worldwide. Examining the pathways of patients with periodontitis through the health-care system enables a more comprehensive approach to treatment and support that improves social inclusion and quality of life.

AIM: The aim of the study was to explore and understand the perceptions of people with periodontitis and key experts in the field regarding the treatment pathways and the key information, actors, structures, activities, processes, and factors that contribute to improving the treatment of patients with periodontitis.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: We used a qualitative research design with in-depth interviews to gather comprehensive data on individuals’ perspectives and experiences related to periodontitis. A total of 12 patient interviews and 12 expert interviews were conducted.

RESULTS: Most interviewees only contacted a dentist when periodontitis symptoms such as gum swelling and tooth mobility became severe. This delayed response is attributed to limited health literacy and a lack of familiarity with basic oral health. Physicians often miss these symptoms or hesitate to treat them due to uncertainty, limited knowledge, or systemic pressures. Improvements in health care call for enhanced symptom recognition, patient education, and interprofessional collaboration to tackle these challenges efficiently.

CONCLUSION: The study underscores the need for improved health literacy and interprofessional collaboration in health care, highlighting that delayed treatment of periodontitis due to lack of symptom recognition and limited oral health knowledge necessitates more effective patient education and health-care provider training.