Abstract
Tooth loss is considered a major end-point sequela of preventable oral diseases. In Malaysia, tooth mortality is a common oral health problem. Objective: To assess the impact of tooth loss, preferences for tooth replacement, and the relationship between impact of tooth loss and number of missing teeth. Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional survey involved 244 patients attending a primary health center and dental clinic at a public university. The respondents completed self-administered questionnaires on personal background, tooth replacement status, impact of tooth loss using a 12-item modified Geriatric Oral Health Assessment Index (GOHAI), and preferences for tooth replacement. A dental examination was performed to determine the number of missing teeth. Results: The mean age of the respondents was 56.2 years (standard deviation [SD], 8.1 years). The mean number of missing teeth was 8.3; 62.7% of patients had at least 20 natural teeth. The majority were not wearing a dental prosthesis. The mean GOHAI score was 16.3. Of the patients, 66.0% experienced some food biting difficulty, 59.4% worried about oral health, and 57.8% experienced eating discomfort. Dental implants were the most preferred replacement option (38.9%). The GOHAI scores were not related to the number of missing teeth. Conclusion: Tooth loss and use of dental prostheses had some impact on quality of life, although the impact was not high.
Recommended Citation
Fang, H. P., En, L. J., Meei, T. I., Ahmad, R., Abdul Aziz, A. F., Said, S. M., & Mohd Dom, T. N. Impact of Tooth Loss and Preferences for Tooth Replacement Among Clinic Attendees at a Public University. J Dent Indones. 2018;25(2): 108-113
