Introduction: Peri-implantitis represents a major complication for the long-term preservation of dental implants and is often attributable to the combined effect of risk factors. This review aims to present patient-related risk factors that are linked to peri-implantitis and to discuss possible solutions in terms of a pre-implant therapy. Material and methods: While implant characteristics and surgical techniques are patient-independent risk factors for peri-implantitis, patient-related factors may also potentially contribute to an increased risk of developing peri-implantitis. The most commonly discussed factors include patient age, medication and other medical treatments, existing periodontitis, plaque and lim-ited oral hygiene, patient compliance related to supportive implant therapy, lack of attached gingiva, smoking, diet, diabetes, and patient genetics. Conclusion: Whereas patient age was not found to diminish implant survival and the factor genetics is currently considered to be unpredictable, potential influencing measures could be identified for the other risk factors. These include a comprehensive anamnesis and diagnosis, attention to contraindications (e.g. i.v. antiresorptives, patients receiving radiotherapy and smoking simultaneously), treatment of existing periodontitis, smoking cessation, adequate adjustment of HbA1c values in diabetics, dietary counseling, plaque reduction, attention to and creation of attached gingiva and sufficient hard tissue as well as offering a well-structured supportive implant therapy. Keywords: diabetes, diet, implant aftercare, peri-implantitis, plaque, pre-implant treatment, risk factors, smoking