Quality of Life of Patients over 65 Years Old Who Use Removable Dentures

Abstract

Abstract Background Elderly patients using removable dentures experience a number of oral problems associated with mucosal traumatisation and the consequences of poor oral hygiene, which affect the patients’ quality of life. Objectives The aim of this study was to assess the quality of life associated with the oral cavity in patients over 65 years of age who use removable dentures. Material and methods A group of 98 patients over 65 years of age who use removable dentures were examined with the GOHAI questionnaire. Demographic data, and information on smoking, the duration of denture use and the Fox test were also taken. The dental examination assessed the condition of the oral cavity, especially missing teeth, approximal plaque index API, gingival bleeding index SBI, and prosthetic base. Results Sperman correlation analysis showed statistically significant differences in several variables. A statistically significantly lower quality of life was found in patients who were edentulous, smoked cigarettes, had symptoms of dry mouth, prosthetic base inflammation and SBI above 50%. Conclusions Patients using removable dentures mostly lack good oral hygiene, which needs to be improved by increasing their awareness of the possible consequences of neglect. Dental care should take into account factors that affect patients’ quality of life.