Assessment of Factors Affecting the Use of and Need for Dental Prosthesis

Abstract

Objective: There is a dearth of literature on population-based studies that look at the factors that influence the use of and the need for dental prostheses. The purpose of this study was to assess the use and need for dental prostheses, as well as other related aspects in older adults of Pakistan.

Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted amongst the community-dwelling older participants from December 2021 and February 2022. The sample size was calculated using a probabilistic per-cluster sampling method. A clinical oral exam was conducted followed by a systematic questionnaire to collect data. Bivariate and multivariate Poisson regression was used to verify associations using multivariate analysis.

Results: A total of 338 individuals participated from Lahore, Pakistan. Dental prostheses were used by 77.3% of the participants. The number of people who needed dental prostheses was 37%. High levels of education were associated with a reduced prevalence ratio (PR) for dental prosthesis use. Retired older people and unmarried individuals had significantly higher PRs for prosthesis use than other groups. Those who did not have access to dental care had a higher prevalence ratio for using a dental prosthesis. In rural locations, older persons had a 73.4 per cent greater prevalence ratio of needing dental prosthetics.

Conclusion: This sample revealed a low prevalence of dental prosthesis use and a high prevalence of dental prosthesis need in Lahore, Pakistan. Marital status, level of education and retirement status are all factors to consider when planning for a dental prosthesis.