Abstract

SHIGLI, K; HEBBAL, M; SAJJAN, S  and  AGRAWAL, N. The knowledge, attitude and practice of edentulous patients attending a dental institute in India regarding care of their dental prostheses. S. Afr. dent. j. [online]. 2015, vol.70, n.7, pp.294-299. ISSN 0375-1562.

AIM: The role of a dentist does not end with the placement of the prosthesis, for the care of the denture is equally important. This study aimed to assess knowledge, attitude and practice regarding care of complete dentures METHODS: The sample comprised 192 complete denture patients visiting the Department of Prosthodontics. A questionnaire assessed their socio-demographic status (Kuppuswamy's socio-economic classification), denture use, denture cleaning and knowledge of denture care. Data was subjected to descriptive statistical analysis RESULTS: 69.8% patients had only one set of complete dentures; 77.1% and 25.5% patients removed their dentures at night and during the day respectively. All reported cleaning their prostheses daily; 94.7% patients employed a tooth brush, 5.3% used denture brush and 3.6% used denture cleansers. 35.9% patients did not know about the estimated life expectancy of complete dentures and only 10.9% patients had knowledge of items to be avoided to prevent staining of dentures CONCLUSION: Instruction on how to care for complete dentures should be given special attention by the dentists during insertion. Follow up and reinforcement of denture home care should be done periodically to ensure durable performance of dentures as well as maintenance of good oral health

Keywords : Knowledge; Attitude; Complete Denture; Denture maintenance.

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