DEMANDS, NEEDS, EXPECTATIONS, PATTERNS AND REASONS AMONG PATIENTS FOR TREATMENT WITH FIXED DENTAL PROSTHESES

Abstract

Objectives: Needs, demands and expectations of patients regarding fixed dental prostheses (FDPs) are

influenced by patient's factors including pattern of missing teeth, education, socio-economic status, age

and oral health. These factors are explored in local patients wishing FDPs for the first time.

Material and Methods: During the period between November 2004 to March 2006, partially-dentate

patients (n = 100) wishing to have conventional tooth-supported FDPs at the Department of

Prosthodontics, Khyber College of Dentistry Peshawar, Pakistan were interviewed and clinically examined.

Data were collected, regarding their age, gender, education, socio-economic status, oral hygiene and need

for mouth and tooth-preparatory work. Patient's demands, needs, expectations and patterns of missing

teeth and reasons for preferring FDPs were also assessed. Data were analyzed by descriptive statistics

and Chi-square test.

Results: Patients were 44 males and 56 females with 92% not older than 45 years. Educated and socioeconomically

secure patients were 81% and 90% respectively. Only 2% were regular dental-attenders. A

substantial need for pre-prosthetic & preparatory procedures in the form of periodontal (80%),

conservative (76%) and dental extractions (80%) was noted. The pattern of missing teeth reflected

bounded-spaces (142) and distal-extension-spaces (8). Bounded- spaces were posterior (109) and anterior

(33). Reasons for consultation to have FDPs were functional in 56 % and aesthetics in 44%. Reasons for

preferring FDPs were; psychological (90%), security (76%), easy to maintain (73%) improved-chewing

(67%) and aesthetic (54%). Expectations were functional in 79% patients. Expectation for improved

function was noted in 86 % males and 73% females. Expectation for improved-aesthetics was seen in

93.2% males

Conclusion: 

Demand and need for FDPs was higher in males and in those with better social, educational

and economic levels. Need for FDPs was realistic and for enhancement of chewing-function.