Structural equation modeling for factors influencing patients' willingness to replace removable dentures

Area of Science:

• Geriatric Dentistry
• Prosthodontics
• Health Services Research

Background:

• Removable dentures are crucial for oral function and quality of life in many patients.
• Understanding factors influencing denture replacement decisions is vital for effective patient care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify key factors influencing patients' willingness to replace their removable dentures.
• To analyze the relationships between perceived denture quality, oral health, and replacement decisions using structural equation modeling.

Main Methods:

• 153 patients seeking denture consultations were surveyed on denture quality, general health-related quality of life, and oral health-related quality of life.
• Denture quality was also assessed by dental clinicians.
• Structural equation modeling (SEM) analyzed the influence of various factors on the decision to replace dentures.

Main Results:

• The SEM model demonstrated a strong fit, indicating reliable findings.
• Poor denture quality was a significant predictor, increasing the likelihood of denture replacement (standardized total effect = 0.503).
• Good oral health was associated with a decreased likelihood of denture replacement (standardized total effect = -0.154).

Conclusions:

• Patient willingness to replace dentures is influenced by a combination of perceived denture quality and oral health status.
• These findings underscore the importance of comprehensive pretreatment assessments in shared decision-making for denture replacement.
• Understanding these factors can improve treatment planning and patient satisfaction.