Decision processes preceding full mouth extractions

Full mouth extraction is the final step in a continuous process in which not only dental but also social processes play a role. In a research project concerning the reasons for full mouth extractions in The Netherlands, it was found that over one-third of the patients had considered full mouth extractions at least once before, and 16% considered it frequently over a period of many years. Anxiety was the most important reason for not visiting a dentist. In the patients' view in 86% of the cases they were the initiator of the decision to have all their teeth extracted. According to the dentist the patients initiated full mouth extraction in 70% of the cases. Dentists and patients agreed that irregular attenders more often took the initiative than regular attenders. Most patients (87%) had discussed the decision to have all teeth extracted with one or more persons; different contacts were reported by 14% percent of the patients. According to Freidson's lay referral theory two groups could be identified: a group with a severely truncated lay referral structure and a group characterized by a more extended lay referral structure. The first group was older (46 versus 36 yr) and had a more positive attitude towards full dentures. In order to avoid problems dentists are recommended to involve (a representative of) the patient's social network when important decisions have to be taken.