PATIENT PERCEPTION OF SMILE DESIGN BEFORE AND AFTER PROSTHODONTIC TREATMENT

Background: To assess patient perception of smile design before and after prosthodontic treatment and to analyze demographic and socioeconomic factors influencing post-treatment satisfaction. Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted at the Department of Prosthodontics, Rehman College of Dentistry, Peshawar, from January 2023 to January 2024. A total of 73 patients undergoing prosthodontic treatment were enrolled through consecutive sampling. Demographic details were recorded, and patient perception was assessed before and after treatment using a structured questionnaire and visual analogue scale. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26. Paired t-test and chi-square test were applied, with p < 0.05 considered significant. Results: The mean overall smile satisfaction improved significantly from 4.2 ± 1.1 before treatment to 8.1 ± 0.9 after treatment (p < 0.001). All esthetic parameters, including tooth color, shape, alignment, and smile attractiveness, showed highly significant improvement (p < 0.001). Younger patients, those with higher education, and individuals from middle or high socioeconomic backgrounds reported greater post-treatment satisfaction. No significant differences were observed between male and female participants. Conclusion: Prosthodontic treatment leads to a marked enhancement in patient perception of smile design, contributing to improved esthetic satisfaction and self-confidence. Incorporating patient-reported outcomes into prosthodontic care is essential for achieving holistic treatment success.