Survey of the dental state and needs of a group of elderly army pensioners in England.

375 army pensioners (89% of the population of the Royal Hospital Chelsea) were interviewed and given a dental inspection. The quality of any denture was assessed by KAPUR's method. Of the 318 men with dentures 254 (85%) had not been back to the dentist since and 60% of the dentures were over 10 years old. 244 denture wearers claimed they were satisfied although only 11 dentures could be rated 'good' and 67% of complete dentures were 'poor'. 25% of those interviewed actually wanted treatment, 10% did not know but the majority simply 'couldn't be bothered'. The overwhelming need is for skilled prosthetic treatment. A plea is made for educating patients to appreciate that dentures should be changed and that regular dental inspections are necessary throughout life.