THE MOST COMMON CHIEF COMPLAINTS IN PATIENTS PRESENTING TO OPD AT PUNJAB DENTAL HOSPITAL, LAHORE

Background and objective: One of the key elements in clinical history taking is chief complaint. The aim and objective of this cross-sectional study was to ascertain the commonest chief complaints of patients presenting in OPD at Punjab Dental Hospital, Lahore. Methods: This observational, cross-sectional study was carried out at outpatient department of Punjab dental hospital, Lahore. Specifically designed data extraction forms were used to survey 1,024 patients, which comprised demographics and questions relating to presenting complaints of the patients. Results: The commonest chief complaint of the patients was dental pain, followed by tooth replacement, decayed teeth and sensitivity. The number of patients presented for routine dental checkup was alarmingly low. Conclusion: Prevalence of pain as the most common presenting complaint is a symptom of ignorance and negligence towards dental health. This warrants immediate attention to be drawn towards educating patients about oral and dental healthcare. Keywords: Chief complaint, Presenting complaint, CC, Dental health