A SELF-HELP GROUP FOR COMPLETE DENTURE WEARERS

Denture provision is a frequent source of frustration and misunderstanding for both patients and dentists. This study investigates the role of a self-help group in helping denture wearers with long standing problems to come to terms with their difficulties and to reduce their demands on the dentist. Eleven people with clinically satisfactory dentures and long standing perceived problems were invited to join the programme. Evaluation at 2 and 12 months afterwards indicated everyone had benefitted in some way. Benefits included eating foods previously avoided, the opportunity for social intercourse and reducing the visits to the dentist.