Investigating the relationship between the difference in gingival color and denture base color on patient satisfaction with complete dentures

BACKGROUND: Patient satisfaction with complete dentures is multifactorial, with aesthetics being a key determinant. The color match between the denture base and the patient's natural gingiva is a critical aspect of denture aesthetics; however, its specific impact on satisfaction remained unclear. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between the color difference of the denture base from the natural gingiva and patient satisfaction with complete dentures. METHODS: In this descriptive-analytical study, 88 edentulous patients (62 men, 26 women) scheduled for complete denture treatment were enrolled. The closest match to the patient's gingival color was selected by a dentist using the Ivoclar Ivobase Shade Guide. Patients also independently selected their preferred base color. All dentures were fabricated using a single shade of acrylic resin (Pref) as standard color. Patient satisfaction was assessed using a Visual Analog Scale (VAS, 0-10) at two time points: at delivery and at a one-week follow-up. Data on age, gender, education level, and color choices were collected. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 27 with Mann-Whitney, Kruskal-Wallis, and Spearman's rank correlation tests. RESULTS: Patient satisfaction showed no significant correlation with age, gender, education level, or the patient's own color choice (P > 0.05). However, a significant positive correlation was found between satisfaction and the dentist's initial color selection (P = 0.006). This relationship was stronger at the follow-up session compared to the delivery session. CONCLUSIONS: The findings indicate that the dentist's assessment of gingival color, leading to a closer match between the denture base and natural tissues, could be associated with patient satisfaction. Patient self-selection of color did not significantly influence satisfaction levels.