Assessment of Patient Satisfaction with Complete Denture Treatment Following Delivery of Postoperative Instructions Via Verbal and Handwritten Formats

Abstract

Background: Patient compliance with complete denture care is critical for prosthesis success. The format of postoperative instructions may influence both adherence and satisfaction.
Objective: To compare the impact of verbal and handwritten postoperative instructions on patient satisfaction, compliance, and adaptation to complete dentures.

Methods: A prospective, comparative study was conducted on 90 edentulous patients, divided into two equal groups. Group 1 received verbal instructions, while Group 2 received handwritten instructions. A structured questionnaire was administered at a 1-week follow-up to evaluate compliance, satisfaction, and instruction preference.

Results: Both groups demonstrated 100% compliance with denture hygiene. Group 2 (handwritten) showed better long-term recall and stronger preference for written instructions. Statistically significant differences were observed in daily routine impact (p = 0.048) and instruction format preference (p = 0.001), favoring handwritten instructions. However, no significant difference was found in overall satisfaction (p = 0.487).

Conclusion: Both formats were effective in maintaining hygiene and satisfaction. Handwritten instructions promoted better information retention and were the preferred choice. A multimodal strategy (verbal plus written) may optimize patient education and outcomes.