Improved perceived general health is observed with prosthodontic treatment

Abstract

Objectives: Prosthodontic treatment affects not only oral health, but also general health. However, whether prosthodontic patients actually perceive a change in their general health has not been well studied. This study aims to compare self-reported general-health status in patients before and after prosthodontic treatment.

Methods: Self-reported general-health status was measured using a single-item questionnaire in a consecutive sample of 500 prosthodontic patients. Responses were recorded using a five-point scale ranging from "poor" to "excellent."

Results: After treatment, patients' self-reported general-health status was slightly but statistically significantly improved. Perceived general health improved in 2.3% of patients treated with fixed partial dentures, in 11.3% of patients treated with removable partial dentures, and in 4.1% of patients treated with complete dentures. Changes in self-reported general-health status were not related to age or gender.

Conclusion: Prosthodontic treatment appears to have a positive effect on perceived general health.