This study explored the influence of individual and social factors regarding intentions and behaviors related to prosthodontic treatment, using the theory of planned behavior (TPB). A cross-sectional study was designed with a sample of 225 individuals with some degree of tooth loss. A questionnaire was used containing factors that would have potential influence on the intentions and behaviors of individuals, as well as clinical and sociodemographic data. Descriptive statistics, internal consistency analysis, chi-square test for trend, and logistic regression were used for data analysis. The TPB components - attitude toward the behavior (ATB), subjective norm (SN), and perceived behavioral control (PBC) - showed good internal consistency (alpha = 0.60-0.78). Intention and behavior were associated with TPB components and the overall scale. Similarly, positive intentions and behaviors were associated with age, upper tooth loss, anterior tooth loss, and higher social status. Multiple logistic regression showed that intention was associated with PBC (OR =1.57; P<0.016), while behavior was associated with tooth loss in both arches (OR =9.3; P<0.001), anterior tooth loss (OR =5.13; P<0.001), higher social status (OR =3.06; P<0.03), and PBC (OR =1.38; P=0.03). The presence of anterior tooth loss was the most relevant factor for prosthodontic treatment demand and utilization, while socioeconomic status and an individual's perceived ease or difficulty in undergoing treatment played a significant, but secondary, role in behavior toward prosthodontic care.
Keywords: attitude to health; behavior; edentulous patient; health services and demand.