Behavioral factors and denture status.

The experiences and impressions for most of the 64 patients who entered the project in 1968 reveal that the opportunity to obtain new dentures, prepared according to the best available technology by highly skilled dentists and dental laboratory technicians, has had an identifiable impact on each of the several behavioral variables for which changes were predicted before the study began. There has been general improvement in self-image, confidence, and relaxation, and these changes often were associated with perceived improvement in fit of dentures, ability to eat, ability to talk, and general health. Although some patients experienced serious health problems during the 6 year study period, neither were these attributed to nor did they appear associated in any way with denture status. The patient population, in general, was very cooperative. Fifty-three patients stayed with the study for 6 years. Most kept their appointments and followed the instructions and advice of their dentists on all matters but one--that of removing their dentures at night. In explaining why they did not remove their dentures at night, most of the patients gave evidence of a high degree of sexual symbolism associated with teeth and denture status.