Problems faced with complete dentures by elderly people attending clinics in dental hospital, Peradeniya

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed at assessing physical, social and psychological problems faced by complete denture wearers and to identify the association of socioeconomic factors of the individual with the problems related to complete denture-wearing for early identification and treatment planning to improve their oral health and wellbeing. Materials and Methods: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted at the Dental Hospital, among 96 complete denture wearers, who were 60 years and above. A pre-tested and structured interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to collect data through telephone interviews. Descriptive statistics were obtained as frequencies and percentages. Chi-Square test was used to assess the association between selected demographic variables and denture information. Results: Most of the participants (71.9%) used their present dentures for 0-5 years. Gender and occupation significantly influenced the frequency of cleaning the mouth. The most common problems were loose dentures, longer time is taken to complete meals, consciousness while eating, difficulty in chewing and food accumulation beneath dentures. Occupation, family support and family income had significant associations with some problems related to complete dentures. Family support was the major factor that had significant association with social interactions such as difficulty in speaking, limitation in facial expression, avoiding going to parties and avoiding leaving home/resident environment. Most of the socioeconomic factors had a strong influence on participants' self-confidence. Conclusion: Complete denture prosthodontics should focus on patients' physical and psychosocial problems with their socioeconomic background to identify problems, to restore their confidence level and improve quality of life.