Patient satisfaction after rehabilitation with tooth-supported fixed partial dentures: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Introduction: Patients' perceptions of their oral health status are important outcomes in prosthodontics. There is an increasing realization that patient evaluation of the satisfaction with the worth of such treatment must be a consideration in any measure of overall prosthodontic success. Aims and Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the patients' satisfaction after rehabilitation with fixed partial dentures (FPDs) considering esthetic and functional outcome as well as comfort and overall quality of life after treatment. Materials and Methods: Two hundred patients undergoing FPD treatment at the Department of Prosthodontics, VSPM Dental College and Research Centre, Nagpur, were selected to participate in the cross-sectional study using a patient satisfaction questionnaire after a week of insertion of the FPD prosthesis. Results: About 86.3% of the examined patients were satisfied with the fixed prosthesis, whereas 13.7% were not satisfied with their fixed prosthesis. Ninety-four percent of the patients were satisfied with the appearance of the prosthesis immediately after placement which increased to 98% after a week of cementing the prostheses. Regarding the functioning masticatory ability, 91% of the examined patients were satisfied with the fixed prosthesis. On evaluation of the patient satisfaction for cleansability and awareness of oral hygiene practices, 58% of patients were happy with the cleansability of the prosthesis, whereas 42% were unsatisfied with the cleaning of their prosthesis. Three percent of patients complained of bad taste and foul odor from the base of the prosthesis. Conclusion: Factors such as cleansability and comfort of the fixed prosthesis also play an important role along with appearance and masticatory ability while considering the patient satisfaction and success of prosthesis. Counseling the patients regarding unrealistic expectations should be taken care of right from the diagnosis and treatment planning stage to ensure high satisfaction level and overall success of the fixed prosthodontic treatment.