Denture Adhesives - Knowledge and Tradition among Denture Wearers in Western Maharashtrian Population - A Survey

BACKGROUND Denture adhesives play a vital role in retention of complete dentures, wherever indicated. Dentists need to know about denture adhesives to be able to identify those patients who actually need them and to be able to educate them about the advantages, disadvantages and correct use of these products. The aim of the study was to evaluate the knowledge about denture adhesives among complete denture wearers indicated for use of denture adhesives visiting Dental Colleges in Western Maharashtra. METHODS The study was conducted on 300 completely edentulous patients with conventional complete dentures indicated for use of denture adhesives. RESULTS Patients (n=300) who were wearing ill-fitting complete dentures and required use of denture adhesives were selected, their response about knowledge was assessed by questionnaire survey and those who knew about it were instructed to demonstrate the application of denture adhesive to the intaglio surface of complete denture. 34.7% (n(1)=104) of the total subjects (n=300) had heard about denture adhesives. Out of these 104 subjects, 69.2% (n(1)=72; CP=24%) had used and 77.8% (n(1)=81; CP=27%) knew when to use denture adhesives. Out of 72 subjects who had used denture adhesive, only 30.5% (CP=7.3%) could demonstrate the adequate technique to use denture adhesive. CONCLUSIONS Knowledge about use of denture adhesives for those who are in need per se has to be spread along with right technique of its use. The indication of its use, and correct technique/techniques of application, should be taught to the patients who demand the use of denture adhesives.