Edentulousness--an oral handicap. Patient reactions to treatment with jawbone-anchored prostheses

Abstract

A questionnaire was sent to all 189 edentulous patients with denture adaptation problems who were treated with fixed prostheses on osseointegrated oral implants during the period 1965-1978. One hundred and fifty-two patients (80%) responded. Practically all had adapted well to the prostheses and were most satisfied with the rehabilitated oral function, including chewing ability. Four out of five patients regarded the bridge as part of their own body instead of a foreign object, and 90% would not hesitate to have the treatment performed again, if necessary. Parallel with the improved oral function the patients reported a definite reduction of psychosocial problems associated with their previous oral invalidity, and increased security and self-esteem.