An Analysis of the Selected Sociodemographic Characteristics in Removable Denture Wearers

Abstract

Introduction. Dental prosthetic replacements allow restoring the masticatory function, thus contributing to proper nutrition and correct speech, and also improving facial aesthetics.Aim. The aim of the study was to assess the selected sociodemographic characteristics of people using removable dentures (patient-paid and funded by the National Health Fund).Material and methods. A questionnaire survey involved 321 individuals, resident in the Lubelskie Voivodship, who used removable dental prostheses. Their selected sociodemographic characteristics were analysed: age, sex, education, place of residence and material status, as well as the form of payment for prosthetic replacements. The obtained results were analysed statistically.Results. Almost 70% of the studied population wearing removable prostheses had their dentures funded by the National Health Fund. In each age group, women used National Health Fund funded prostheses twice more frequently than men. Prostheses funded by the National Health Fund were used significantly more frequently by patients aged 51-70 years, living in cities and with a higher education level, in comparison to the respondents from other age groups, with different place of residence and education level.Conclusions. There is correlation between sex, age, place of residence and education level of patients and the frequency of their wearing removable dentures, both patient-paid and funded by the National Health Fund.