Satisfaction assessment of removable dentures usage among the elderly patients in Dental Prosthesis service campaign.

Abstract

Objective : To evaluate the results and satisfactions of removable dentures usage two years after denture construction and implementation of the governmentfunded dentures for the elderly project.

Method : The elderly patients, who were serviced, were interviewed for current conditions of denture placement and corresponding satisfactions. Obtained data were analyzed in terms of descriptive statistics. Qualitative data such as complaints and expressions of feeling were also included.

Result : Sixty percent of the serviced elderly had no previous experience of prosthodontic treatment and 40 percent of all the serviced patients did not go back for follow-up. Eighty percent of elderly accepted the received dentures in terms of function and esthetics. Seven percent of the patients have never used the received dentures, mainly due to pain on chewing and wearing, and a few cases of these paid for another denture from other providers. The satisfaction assessment revealed that 50 percent of the patients reported highly-satisfied level in using their dentures while dissatisfaction was mainly due to problems in using mandibular prostheses. Less than 50 percent of the patients reported highly-satisfied level in occlusal function and general satisfaction after two years of denture usage. It was suggestive that the role of those who had problems in denture placement should be stressed during denture construction and the follow-up.

Keywords: Assessment, Dental Prosthesis Service Campaign, Satisfaction, the elderly