Systematic review of quality of reporting, outcome measurements and methods to study efficacy of preventive and therapeutic approaches to peri-implant diseases

Aim To systematically review the literature and to assess the quality of reporting, outcome measurements and methods in both preventive and therapeutic approaches to peri-implant mucositis (PM) and peri-implantitis (PI). Materials and Methods Randomized (RCT) and Controlled Clinical Trials (CCT), evaluating preventive or therapeutic interventions in patients with PM or PI, were identified through searching in electronic databases and in relevant journals. Reporting and methods were evaluated through an analysis of the risk of biases and quality score. Sub-analysis was performed in four subgroups: prevention of PM and PI, treatment of PM, and non-surgical and surgical treatment of PI. Results Thirty-two trials (29 RCT) were identified as accomplishing inclusion criteria after full-text reading. Seven focused on prevention, and among those dealing with therapy, six were related to PM and 19 related to PI therapy (10 non-surgical and 9 surgical). Analysis found that quality of reporting and methods was generally low and surrogate outcomes were often chosen. Conclusions Current literature on PM and PI prevention and treatment does not allow extracting applicable clinical information. Quality of methods and reporting guidelines should be encouraged. In particular, ad hoc guidelines should be designed for peri-implant diseases.