PSYCHOSOCIAL FACTORS AFFECTING ORAL HYGIENE IN PROSTHETIC USERS. EXPLORE HOW PSYCHOLOGICAL AND SOCIAL FACTORS INFLUENCE ORAL HYGIENE BEHAVIORS IN PATIENTS WITH PROSTHETIC DEVICES
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Keywords
Oral hygiene, prosthetic users, psychological factors, social influences, dental anxiety, self-care, prosthetic maintenance
Abstract
Background: Maintaining oral hygiene is essential for prosthetic users to prevent infections, discomfort, and complications related to dental prostheses. While mechanical cleaning methods are widely discussed, the influence of psychosocial factors on oral hygiene behaviors remains less explored. This study aims to assess how psychological and social factors affect oral hygiene practices among individuals using dental prostheses.
Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted at Bibi Aseefa Dental College, Larkana, Sindh, from March 2023 to March 2024. A total of 89 prosthetic users participated, selected through convenience sampling from the outpatient department. Data were collected through structured questionnaires assessing psychological, social, and behavioral factors. Clinical examinations, including plaque and gingival index assessments, were performed. In cases of suspected infections, laboratory procedures such as microbiological testing were conducted. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 26, with a significance level set at p < 0.05.
Results: The study revealed that psychological factors, including dental anxiety and self-efficacy, significantly influenced oral hygiene compliance. Individuals with higher confidence in self-care exhibited better hygiene practices. Social support played a crucial role, with participants receiving encouragement from family and peers demonstrating improved adherence to oral hygiene routines. However, perceived stigma and cultural beliefs acted as barriers, leading some individuals to neglect regular dental visits. Behavioral analysis showed that while most participants brushed their prostheses daily, the frequency of professional check-ups remained low. A notable proportion relied on self-medication rather than seeking timely professional care.
Conclusion: Psychosocial factors significantly impact oral hygiene behaviors in prosthetic users. Addressing barriers such as dental anxiety, social stigma, and lack of awareness through targeted interventions can enhance oral health outcomes. Dental professionals should consider these factors in patient education and treatment plans to promote better oral hygiene maintenance in prosthetic users.
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Dr. Shabir Ahmed
Associate Professor and Head of Department, Department of Prosthodontics, Bibi Aseefa Dental College, Larkana, Pakistan
Dr. Zaheer Hussain Chachar
Assistant Professor and Head of Department, Department of Periodontology, Altamash Institute of Dental Medicine, Karachi, Pakistan
Dr. Deepak Kumar
Assistant Professor, Department of Prosthodontics, Bibi Aseefa Dental College, Larkana, Pakistan
Dr. Zubair Ahmed Khan
Associate Professor, Department of Periodontology, FMH College of Medicine & Dentistry, Lahore, Pakistan
Dr. Maimuna Khokhar
Assistant Professor, Department of Prosthodontics, Shahida Islam Medical and Dental College, Lodhran, Pakistan
Dr. Usman Bashir Shaikh
Assistant Professor, Department of Prosthodontics, Ziauddin University, Clifton Karachi, Pakistan