An Epidemiological Study to Assess the Prevalence of Partial Edentulism based on Kennedy’s Classification and Awareness to Restore Same among Middle Age and Older Adults

Abstract

Edentulism is an indicator of the oral health of a population. Despite immense research and study in the field of dentistry around the world, a substantial portion of population loses natural teeth and are candidates of prosthodontic rehabilitation. Partially edentulous patients exhibit a wide range of physical variations from missing single tooth to many. Many classifications were given time to time to classify partial edentulous arches but at present Kennedy’s classification is probably the most widely accepted and has classified partial edentulous spaces mainly into four types. Teeth loss affects speech, mastication, aesthetics and may result in decreased confidence of the patient which in turn may affect the overall quality of life. Considering the need of knowing prevalence of partial edentulism and awareness to restore the same among the population. A study was planned by the post graduate department of prosthodontics and crown & bridge, Indira Gandhi govt dental college and hospital Jammu. The aim of the study was to assess the prevalence of partial edentulism and awareness to the restore same among the population visiting the outpatient department of Indira Gandhi govt dental college and hospital Jammu. The study will also help us to know needs of patient, their preferences and will further direct us to promote awareness and knowledge of patients about the impact of missing teeth on oral functions and importance of dental prosthesis.