A structural equation model relating oral condition, denture quality, chewing ability, satisfaction, and oral health-related quality of life in complete denture wearers.

Objectives: To investigate the relationship between mandibular ridge form, stability and retention of mandibular complete denture, accuracy of jaw relation recording, patients' perception of chewing ability, satisfaction with dentures and oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) in complete denture wearers.

Methods: A total of 183 edentulous patients, who visited the Dental Hospital of Tokyo Medical and Dental University for new complete dentures, were recruited. Oral examination was performed. Cawood and Howell's method was used to grade the mandibular ridge form. The stability and retention of the mandibular complete denture were assessed using Kapur method. Accuracy of jaw relation recording was evaluated using a newly developed jaw relation index. Patients' perception of chewing ability was rated using a food intake questionnaire. Patients' satisfaction with complete dentures was assessed on a 100-mm visual analogue scale. OHRQoL was measured using the Japanese version of the Oral Health Impact Profile for edentulous subjects. A structural equation model was constructed based on the hypothesis that oral condition and denture quality would be related to chewing ability, satisfaction and OHRQoL.

Results: Significant relationships were found between mandibular ridge form, stability of mandibular complete denture, accuracy of jaw relation recording, perceived chewing ability, satisfaction and OHRQoL. Various fit indices were within acceptable limits.

Conclusions: Oral condition and denture quality were related to patients' perception of chewing ability, satisfaction with dentures and OHRQoL in complete denture wearers.

Clinical Significance: A favourable oral condition and denture quality are important for successful complete denture therapy.