Condição das próteses totais removíveis e prevalência de alterações de normalidade de mucosa em idosos da área de abrangência do Centro de Saúde Floramar

Abstract

This study evaluated the status of removable full dentures and the prevalence of buccal mucosa lesions among elderly in the area attended at Floramar Health center. Ninety elderly non-institutionalized of both genders who used complete dentures were examined during thenational immunization against influenza. An evaluation form of prosthesis was prepared and it was adapted in a pilot study. After calibration by the researcher, tests were performed in the health unit. All the participants were either referred or given advice according to the resulting diagnosis. The independent variables were time of denture use, integrity, function, hygienic conditions and harmful habits. The dependent variable was the presence of buccal mucosa lesions. Among all evaluated elderly, 28.9% presented some type of oral lesion. It was observed that 53.3% of elderly using complete dentures had used them for a period between 0and 5 years. The vertical dimension of occlusion was abnormal for 50% of those examined. About 72.2% denture users were found to be damaged, principally due to staining, worn teeth and/or broken. The hygienic conditions of the dentures were found to be relevant since 83.3%individuals presented biofilm. Nocturnal use of the dentures was reported by 87.8% of the subjects. These results show the importance of regular clinical examination by a dentist, to evaluate the integrity of the prosthesis and for an examination of the buccal mucosa, as well as the need for protocols for their assessment and guidance on their use.