Exploring lived experiences with tooth loss among fully edentulous patients attending Makerere University Dental Hospital, Kampala, Uganda

This cross-sectional qualitative study investigated experiences of tooth loss among Ugandan edentulous patients attending Makerere University Dental Hospital. Using purposive recruitment of 15 respondents from various socio-economic groups, the study explored causes of tooth loss, physical and psychological effects, difficulties in managing oral hygiene, coping mechanisms, and supportive interventions. The findings revealed that oral infections such as periodontal disease, tooth decay and trauma from accidents were the main causes of tooth loss. Most patients initially chose self-medication before consulting dental professionals. Tooth loss was associated with problems of eating, facial aesthetics and low self-esteem, escalated by poor health seeking behavior.