Recognising denture problems in patients
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Could your patients have problems with their dentures?
Recognising denture problems in patients is not always simple. British Society of Prosthodontics (BSSPD) guidelines recommend that:1
- Adjustments should be made to dentures in light of the patient’s experiences or complaints
- Denture bearing areas should be examined for trauma even in the absence of patient complaints
- The importance of attending regular appointments for review should be explained to the patient
Recognising denture problems in patients: denture troubleshooting checklist
Patient jaw size2 | Small lower jaw, flat alveolar ridges and a small basal seat can lead to poor denture stability,2,3 retention,2,4 chewing ability3,4 and denture satisfaction3 |
Polypharmacy/medical conditions2 | Ageing and increased medication use2 may lead to oral health problems, such as xerostomia (dry mouth),5 and limit normal denture retention2 |
Bone resorption6 | Poor retention6 with changes in denture fit and comfort7 |
Removable partial denture8,9 | Excessive functional forces on natural teeth may cause further mobility and tooth loss8,9 |
Psychological and physical wellbeing10 | Reduction in quality of life: discomfort, avoiding particular foods, difficulty relaxing and avoidance of social situations10 |
Recognising denture problems in patients and helping them on their journey to optimal denture care
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Causes and mechanisms
Find out more about the factors that can limit denture performance and compromise hygiene
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Impact on patient quality of life
Find out about the impact that dentures have on patients’ daily lives
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