The Use of Psychological Measures in Predicting Patient Satisfaction with Complete Dentures

This study examined the extent to which denture satisfaction could be predicted by a measure of locus of control (the degree to which individuals feel that they control their destiny) and a questionnaire (designed to assess prior experiences, perceptions, and expectations relating to dentures). Prior to treatment, 29 patients (14 males; 15 females; mean age 70 ± 3.5 years) completed the Nowicke-Strickland Locus of Control Scale and a brief dental questionnaire. Approximately 10 days after denture placement, patients rated their degree of satisfaction. Correlational analyses were performed separately by gender, controlling for age. Locus of control scores were not significantly correlated with the degree of denture satisfaction for males or females. Responses to several questionnaire items were significantly correlated with denture satisfaction; however, different correlations emerged for males and females, suggesting that patient gender may be an important factor.