Patient expectations of implant therapy are high

Key Points

In brief

• Patients requesting dental implants report significant functional limitations with conventional complete dentures.

• Expectations of implant therapy are high — this could influence satisfaction with outcome and should be carefully assessed.

• Self-completed questionnaires may complement clinical assessment when planning implant therapy.

Abstract

Statement of problem The loss of the natural dentition leads to severe functional impairment in many edentulous adults. A prosthesis retained and supported by osseointegrated dental implants may provide a satisfactory solution for people who have lost all their natural teeth. However, little information is available as to what patients requesting implants expect of implant-retained prostheses.

Aim The aim of this study was to assess the expectations of a group of edentulous patients requesting implant therapy.

Method The study included two groups: (1) a group of edentulous adults who requested implant therapy ('implant group'); and (2) an edentulous control group, of similar age and gender distribution as the implant group, receiving conventional complete dentures. Following a clinical and radiographic examination of the patients, data were collected using validated questionnaires. Both groups made a subjective assessment of current dentures. The implant group also completed a questionnaire which assessed expectations of implant-retained prostheses.

Results Baseline satisfaction with current dentures was low in both groups, with the implant group being significantly less satisfied with comfort and stability of their mandibular dentures. Perceived ability of the implant group to chew hard foods was less than the control group. The implant group's expectations of an implant-retained prosthesis were significantly greater than for a conventional denture.

Conclusion Careful assessment of patient expectation of implant therapy is essential to determine appropriate treatment need, and to highlight unrealistic expectations.

Log in or create a free account to read this content

Gain free access to this article, as well as selected content from this journal and more on nature.com

Access through your institution

or

Sign in or create an account

Continue with Google

Continue with ORCiD