Avaliação do impacto de um protocolo de orientação nos hábitos de utilização e higiene de usuários de próteses totais

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate wearing and hygiene habits of complete denture wearers, their knowledge about denture care, frequency of dental appointments and analyze the impact of a hygiene care protocol in their routine. Thirty-six volunteers, top or bottom denture wearers for more than five years were invited to participate. The volunteers were divided into two groups, the CO group received instructions and a brochure with recommendations on how to sanitize their dentures. The SO group received no guidance. Four to six weeks after finishing the manufacturing process of their new dentures, both groups answered a questionnaire on hygiene habits, denture care knowledge and frequency of dental check-ups. The G test was utilized for statistical analysis, considering p <0.05, using the software BioEstat 5.0©. The results demonstrated a positive correlation between guidance and having better hygiene routine, and also between using complete or partial dentures and performing periodic check-ups. Within the limits of this study, we conclude that brushing with dentifrice and soaking in sodium hypochlorite is the most frequent cleaning methods. Most of volunteers had never been oriented on how to clean their dentures and did not realized periodic dental check- ups. The proposed orientation protocol yielded positive results, and can be applied to improve the standard of hygiene in complete denture wearers and encourage adequate wearing habits.