CORRELATES OF ANXIETY AND DEPRESSION IN TURKISH COMPLETE DENTURE PATIENTS

Denture wearing is a stressful life event which can cause anxiety and depression. Patients' adaptation to dentures may be hindered by their emotional reactions. The present study examined the variables related to anxiety and depression symptoms among 158 adult complete dental prosthesis patients. The results showed that the participants had mild to moderate depression and moderate state anxiety symptoms. The results of the regression analyses showed that treatment duration, perceived burden due to teeth loss and expected benefits of new dentures were related to anxiety. Age, burden of teeth loss and perceived social support from the dentist were related to depression symptoms. Therefore, these variables need to be considered in the management of prosthesis patients.