Evaluation of the awareness regarding denture disinfection in rural Indian population

Despite recent development and research in the field of prosthodontics, partial and complete dentures are the most sought after treatment for the rehabilitation of the lost dentition. However, little is known with regard to the patient’s knowledge, awareness and experience of denture cleansers. The success of the denture depends not only on accurate clinical and technical procedures carried out by the dentist but also on denture hygiene care practices followed by the patients. When an acrylic denture is placed in the mouth, a pellicle of glycoprotein develops that eventually becomes contaminated with oral debris and microorganisms. This renders the denture with an unpleasant taste and odour over time. Moreover, it favors the growth of candida microorganism in the denture, thereby leading to mucosal irritation. Denture care is, therefore, an imperative step to maintain denture quality, aesthetics, and longevity to ensure good oral health status. Hence, the basic objective of this study was to investigate awareness and knowledge about denture cleansers among patients wearing dentures. Keywords: Dentures; Denture hygiene; Denture cleaning aids; Survey