Assessment of attitude towards of replacement of missing teeth among patients visiting to private dental institute of Nagpur city

Abstract

Background–In the World where we live today, our appearance mainly influences our interaction with others. Teeth play a major role in maintaining our self-image. Loss of teeth is a serious matter and can also lead to disrupted social activities. Aims and Objectives - To assess the attitude towards replacement of missing teeth among patients visiting VSPM DCRC, Nagpur, according to their age, gender and socio-economic status. Materials and Methods– A cross-sectional study was conducted on patients attending the VSPM DCRC, Nagpur ,over a period of one month. A questionnaire containing 9 items was used. Result- A patient population of 310 was surveyed in this study. Out of this, 111 (36%) were females and 199 (64%) were males. Out of these 310 respondents, 248(80%) thought that missing teeth should be replaced and 254 (82%) said artificial teeth are equal to natural teeth in function and appearance whereas 20 (7%) said they created problems. Conclusion – The overall attitude of patients towards teeth replacement was good. Majority of them showed awareness regarding teeth replacement but some could not do it because of low socioeconomic status.   Key Words – Teeth Replacement, awareness, attitude, patients, missing teeth, socioeconomic status.