A Cross-Sectional Study to Analyse Patients’ Decision-Making Variables for Prosthodontic Treatment

Abstract

Objectives: The patient's attitude, appropriate treatment planning, and decision-making are necessary to fabricate dental prostheses. This study aimed to evaluate the factors influencing patients' decision-making, patient expectations, and approval of the suggested treatment strategy regarding prosthodontic treatment by the population in the Faridabad region. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was carried out amongst 143 patients in the Department of Prosthodontics at Manav Rachna Dental College, Faridabad, over one month to determine patient's attitudes toward treatment for dental prosthesis. The self-administered questionnaire was made in both English and Hindi languages. The questionnaire's Part A section included demographic data about patients enrolled in the epidemiological survey. Part B of the survey assessed their attitude toward the absence of teeth. Part C comprised close-ended multiple-choice questions assessing the factors affecting decision-making. Part D assessed the patient's expectations from the prosthodontic treatment. Part E evaluated whether the suggested course of treatment was accepted and the reason why the suggested treatment course was rejected. Statistical Analysis: Logistic regression analysis and cross-tabulation analysis were performed using the SPSS 23.0 program to assess the relation between the decision to choose dental prosthesis treatment and independent variables using Tukey's test. Findings: In this analysis, the p-values for age, marital status, gender, level of education, and socio-economic status, when associated with the acceptance of the treatment plan, were all above 0.05, suggesting no statistically significant correlation in these specific associations. However, the elderly population (>60 years) showed a higher percentage of acceptance. Also, female patients readily accepted the suggested treatment plan. Most patients demonstrated acceptance of the proposed course of treatment, with financial considerations emerging as a primary deterrent for those who declined. However, patients were hesitant to get treatment done if surgery was required. Novelty: This epidemiological survey highlighted the importance of the development of health policies regarding dental treatment to make it more affordable for all socioeconomic groups. Conclusion: The importance that patients have on appearance and the crucial role that dentists play in creating treatment plans. As a result, it draws attention to crucial areas that require improvement and intervention. Keywords: Decision making, Prosthodontics, Treatment protocol, Patient education, Patient acceptance of healthcare