Dental prosthetic status and needs of adult rural population living in and around Nalgonda: A survey

Abstract

Aim and Objective: The aim of the study was to assess the dental prosthetic status and needs of adult population in Nalgonda district, Andhra Pradesh. In order to promote the health of adult population, it is necessary to assess their prosthetic needs that would aid in planning oral health service programs. Materials and Methods: The study population comprised of 625 patients who were divided into two age groups; 35-44 and 65-74 years. Prosthetic status and prosthetic needs were recorded using WHO oral health assessment form. The examination was carried out by two examiners, and inter examiner calibration was done with kappa statistics 88%. Chi-square test was used to compare proportions, and significance level was set at α = 0.05. Results: Among 35-44 years age group, only 11.7% and 5.6% were having some kind of prosthesis in upper and lower arches and among 65-74 years age group; 12.7% and 15.9% were having some kind of prosthesis in upper and lower arches. Among 35-44 years age group, 35.1% and 30.4% require one unit prosthesis in upper and lower arches. Among 65-74 years age group, 25.1% and 24.7% require full prosthesis in upper and lower arches. Conclusion: Most of the prosthetic need was unmet in the study population. In order to improve the oral health status, it is important to educate and motivate the patients regarding oral health care and provide free dental treatment camps in rural areas.