Awareness and Attitude of Patients Presenting at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital to Tooth Replacement Options

Abstract

ABSTRACT

Background: Tooth loss has significant functional and psychosocial consequences. Patient choice among available tooth replacement options is influenced by their awareness and attitudes, which are not well-documented in our setting. This study assessed the awareness and attitudes toward tooth replacement options among patients presenting at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital.

Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study of 171 patients aged 18 years and above using a self-administered questionnaire. Data on socio-demographics, awareness of various treatment options, sources of information, and attitudes were collected. Analysis was performed with SPSS version 22.0 using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests.

Results: The mean age was 39.0 ± 8.1 years. Most respondents (90.1%) were aware that missing teeth could be replaced. Awareness was highest for removable acrylic dentures (78.6%) and lowest for dental implants (24.0%). The leading sources of information were dentists and the internet (42.2% each). A majority (86.5%) believed tooth replacement was important, primarily to improve function (75.0%) and aesthetics (70.7%). The primary determinants of choice were cost (100%) and the longevity of the prosthesis (79.1%). No significant associations were found between socio-demographic factors and awareness or attitude.

Conclusion: While general awareness of tooth replacement was high, knowledge of advanced options like implants was low. Attitudes were positive, but cost was the overriding factor influencing patients' decisions. Dentists need to provide more comprehensive counseling on all available prosthetic alternatives.