Patient perception and psychological experience with removable prosthodontics  A cross-sectional study in Libya

Adel  Ahmed; Assma A.  Salim; Mohmoud  Al dayekh; Saeid H.  Mohamed

doi:10.51984/e0sa3x22

Authors

Adel Ahmed Department of Prosthodontics, Faculty of Dentistry, Omar Almokhtar University, Al Bayda https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1203-8885
Assma A. Salim Department of Prosthodontics, Faculty of Dentistry, Omar Almokhtar University, Al Bayda https://orcid.org/0009-0001-6939-8024
Mohmoud Al dayekh Department of Prosthodontics, Faculty of Oral and Dental Medicine, Tobruk University, Tobruk https://orcid.org/0009-0004-1089-6733
Saeid H. Mohamed Department of Prosthodontics, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Benghazi, Benghazi https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6214-9754

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.51984/e0sa3x22

Keywords:

Cross-sectional study, Libya, Patient perception, Psychological experience, Removable complete denture, Removable partial denture

Abstract

Background: Removable dentures remain essential for managing partial and complete tooth loss, particularly among older adults in settings where implant treatment may be limited. This study assessed psychological experiences, self-reported social perceptions, denture type, and duration of use among adults wearing removable prostheses in Libya. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted in public and private dental clinics in Benghazi and Al Beda from July to November 2025. Using convenience sampling, 120 adults aged 45 years or older who had worn complete or removable partial dentures for at least three months completed an expert-reviewed, structured 5-point Likert-scale questionnaire. Data were analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) with descriptive statistics and the Chi-square test.Results: Of the 120 participants, 67 (55.8%) were female and 53 (44.2%) were male; 57 (47.5%) were aged 65-74 years. Removable partial dentures (RPDs) were used by 64 participants (53.3%), while 56 (46.7%) used complete dentures (CDs). Denture type was significantly associated with gender (p < 0.05). The most frequently reported positive outcomes were increased self-confidence (31.7%), improved social interaction (21.7%), and better self-image (18.3%). The main functional difficulties were chewing problems (26.7%), discomfort or pain (21.7%), and speaking difficulties (20.0%).Conclusions: Removable dentures were associated with positive psychological experiences but also persistent functional challenges, highlighting the importance of addressing both adaptation and patient expectations in prosthodontic care.

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Author Biographies

Adel Ahmed, Department of Prosthodontics, Faculty of Dentistry, Omar Almokhtar University, Al Bayda

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Assma A. Salim, Department of Prosthodontics, Faculty of Dentistry, Omar Almokhtar University, Al Bayda

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Mohmoud Al dayekh, Department of Prosthodontics, Faculty of Oral and Dental Medicine, Tobruk University, Tobruk

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Saeid H. Mohamed, Department of Prosthodontics, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Benghazi, Benghazi

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