Diagnostic delays of periodontitis and associated factors: a cross-sectional study.

Objectives: This study aimed to investigate total diagnostic delay (TDD) in periodontitis and identify the factors associated with it.

Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 145 newly examined and diagnosed periodontitis patients were recruited. A structured questionnaire was used to gather data on demographics, symptom onset, duration of diagnostic delay(s), and potential associated factors.