Complete removable prostheses: from expectation to (dis)satisfaction.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this survey was to increase our knowledge on the experience and feelings of edentulous people, 6 months after having acquired and worn a pair of complete removable prostheses.


BACKGROUND
The incorporation of conventional, complete removable prostheses may be an appropriate treatment which can result in an improvement in the quality of life of people who have lost their teeth.


METHODS
The 12 patients of the sample were interviewed individually according to a semi-structured questionnaire so as to create an atmosphere for open conversation regarding the subject matter. For each participant, photographs, before dental treatment and after the use of the prostheses, were taken. The images of the prostheses were reviewed and impressions were collected.


RESULTS
The analysis of participant's statements allowed one to verify if the complete removable prostheses improved the quality of life; however, difficulties encountered could lead users to abandon their prostheses.


CONCLUSIONS
Appropriate investment on the part of health professionals, together with the clarification of information and the monitoring of patients, may well minimise these difficulties.
de Souza e Silva
Maria Elisa
ME
Department of Restorative Dentistry, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil. elisa@ufmg.br
de Magalhães
Cláudia Silami
CS
Ferreira e Ferreira
Efigênia
E
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D001938:Brazil; D019232:Dental Restoration Failure; D003812:Dentist-Patient Relations; D003781:Denture Retention; D003824:Denture, Complete / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000523:psychology*; D005260:Female; D006291:Health Policy; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009066:Mouth, Edentulous / Q000523:psychology / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D023861:Photography, Dental; D036301:Qualitative Research; D011788:Quality of Life; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires