What is the recommended peri-implant maintenance interval?

• A. Every 3-6 months.
• B. Every 6-12 months.
• C. Every 12-24 months.
• D. Only when symptoms appear.

Answer: (A)

Regular peri-implant maintenance at about 3–6 months is recommended because implants are prone to biofilm-related diseases that can progress quietly if not monitored. At each visit, clinicians perform careful cleaning around the implant, assess probing depths and bleeding on probing, check for mucosal health, and take radiographs as needed to track bone levels. This approach allows early detection and treatment of peri-implant mucositis or peri-implantitis before significant bone loss occurs, helping to preserve implant longevity. For patients with higher risk factors—such as a history of periodontal disease, smoking, diabetes, or suboptimal oral hygiene—the interval is often kept toward the shorter end to maintain control. Longer gaps, like 6–12 months or more, increase the chance of undetected disease progression and potential implant failure. The standard recommendation is a 3–6 month recall, with adjustments based on individual risk.