A study to assess the denture hygiene knowledge, attitude and practice among complete denture wearers attending a post graduate dental hospital in Karad, Maharshtra, India

Background and Aim: Life expectancy of people is increasing hence the edentulous population as well. It is of utmost importance that the post insertion instructions to be given by the dentists and followed by the patients earnestly for the success of the prosthetic rehabilitation. In view of this the aim of the present study was conducted. Materials and methods: A self administered questionnaire was administered to the patients to assess their attitude and knowledge about denture care. Results: Out of the 260 patients assessed 76 were males and 184 were females. 114 (43.8%) patients were between the age of 51-60 years.112 (43.1%) of them used the dentures for 1-2 years.56 (21.6%) of them had quid habit and 7 (2.7%) smoked with their dentures.207 (29.6%) of them got the denture hygiene and maintenance instructions from their treating dentists.243 (93.5%) said they clean their dentures after every meal.114 ( 43.8%) used brush and water to clean their dentures.239(91.9%) stored their dentures in water at night.245 (94.2%) do not use any denture cleansing tabs.249(95.8%) do not use any oral rinse.245(94.2%) do not sleep with dentures on.100(38.5%) of the study participants visited their dentists for follow up yearly once visit.198(76.2%) said that the most important quality of denture is that is mastication. Conclusion: The denture care instructions and maintenance protocol in this study were found to be satisfactory. However, emphasis should be given on education and motivation of patients regarding the recall visits of the patients.