Analysis of Re-Treatment Rates After Initial Periodontal Therapy in a Teaching Hospital: A Retrospective Study

Abstract

Background: Despite advances in periodontal therapy, a proportion of patients require re-treatment due to persistent disease or recurrence.

Aim: To evaluate the rate and reasons for re-treatment after initial periodontal therapy in a teaching hospital setting.

Methods: A retrospective chart review was conducted involving 800 patients who underwent initial periodontal treatment between January 2019 and December 2024. Demographic data, clinical parameters, treatment details, and re-treatment variables were extracted. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyse correlations.

Results: Out of 800 patients treated, 112 (14%) underwent re-treatment within 11.3 months. Re-treatment was significantly associated with smoking status, systemic diseases (especially diabetes), poor oral hygiene compliance, and initial disease severity (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Re-treatment was more common in patients with poor systemic control, smoking, and initial moderate-to-severe periodontitis. Emphasis on maintenance and compliance is crucial to reduce re-treatment rates.