Background/Objectives: Titanium dental implants are considered to be the most modern and effective solution for replacing lost teeth. These medical devices not only restore the chewing and aesthetic functionality of the smile but also provide a stable support for crowns, bridges or dentures. The aim of this study was to identify the perceptions of patients about titanium dental implants and their effects on the human body. Methods: A structural equation model (SEM) was conducted to study how a series of independent variables have the ability to influence the perception and intention of the patients regarding these medical devices. A data analysis was performed using WarpPLS 8.0 software. This research was conducted on a sample of 162 respondents. Results: The results illustrated that patients’ perception of titanium dental implants is explained by 71% of the independent variables analysed, and their intention to have a new implant in the next period is explained by 61%. The proposed econometric model was validated, with seven hypotheses accepted out of nine. Conclusions: Although titanium has long been used in implant dentistry, in recent years, experts have identified a number of adverse effects that can arise from its use. This study has added value both at the practical and theoretical level. Perception is influenced by respondents’ perceived advantages, by the problems perceived by the respondents regarding titanium dental implants, by the degree of awareness of the risks of titanium dental implants, and by the adverse effects experienced by respondents regarding titanium dental implants.

Background/Objectives: Patient-centered care has become an important component of chronic disease management. Patients are increasingly involved in complex decisions about their treatment, while effective doctor–patient communication, access to clear medical information, and active involvement in decision-making can contribute to a better care experience. This study aimed to identify the main factors associated with patient participation in medical decision-making and to examine the relationship between participation and patient satisfaction. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 176 patients with chronic conditions. Data were collected using an online questionnaire. The proposed relationships between doctor–patient communication, trust in the doctor, ability to understand medical information, patient involvement in their own care, quality of information provided, participation in medical decision-making, and patient satisfaction were examined using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). Results: All five factors examined were positively and significantly associated with patient participation in medical decision-making. Doctor–patient communication showed the strongest association, followed by patient involvement in their own care and ability to understand medical information. The model explained 69.3% of the variance in participation in medical decision-making (R² = 0.693). Participation was strongly associated with patient satisfaction and explained 56.2% of its variance (R² = 0.562). Conclusions: The findings highlight the importance of actively involving patients with chronic conditions in medical decision-making. Greater patient participation was associated with higher satisfaction with the care received.

With an incidence of approximately 30% of all oral cavity neoplasms, lip cancer significantly impacts the patient quality of life (QoL). The frequent localization is in the lower lip, predominantly affecting men aged between 60–70 years old. The surgical treatment aims at aesthetic and functional reconstruction of the lip. The present study aims at defining a demographic profile of patients with lip cancer and at establishing correlations between tumor characteristics and reconstruction methods. The analysis of the group of 26 patients showed that the lip cancer patient was predominantly female, urban, with a mean age of 73.27±11.17 years old, with squamous cell carcinoma of the lower lip, mean diameter of 1.52 cm and mean depth of 0.72 cm. The tumor characteristics revealed a guide of the decision on the method of lip reconstruction, considering the correlations between a variety of factors, including the size of the affected area, etiology and location of the formation, integration of the flap into the relaxed skin tension lines, the patient general condition, and the degree of cooperation. Regardless of the reconstructive method chosen, the aim is to preserve the functions of the lip in mastication, speech and definition of facial expression. Complex cases require extensive reconstructive interventions involving combinations of various types of flaps. Multidisciplinary management of these patients leads to improved QoL and prevention of recurrences.