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Open AccessEditorial

Oral Health-Related Quality of Life and Its Determinants

by Joanna Baginska and Magdalena Nowosielska

Dent. J. 2026, 14(10), 622; https://doi.org/10.3390/dj14100622 - 29 Sep 2026

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Abstract

Traditional clinical indicators used in dentistry do not fully capture the impact of oral health on people’s daily functioning, emotional well-being and social interactions [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Oral Health-Related Quality of Life and Its Determinants)

Research

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Open AccessArticle

Association Between Childhood Asthma and Oral Health-Related Quality of Life in Young Children: A Cross-Sectional Study Using the SOHO-5

by Susana Valbom Morgado, João Gaspar Marques, Margarida Tejada Nunes, Ana Coelho Canta and Paula Faria Marques

Dent. J. 2026, 14(5), 297; https://doi.org/10.3390/dj14050297 - 13 May 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 713

Abstract

Aim: Asthma is a chronic condition with high prevalence in pediatric populations and may negatively influence oral health. The primary aim of this study was to evaluate the association between asthma and oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) in Portuguese children aged 6 [...] Read more.

Aim: Asthma is a chronic condition with high prevalence in pediatric populations and may negatively influence oral health. The primary aim of this study was to evaluate the association between asthma and oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) in Portuguese children aged 6 to 8 years. Secondary aims included comparing caries experience, salivary parameters, and other clinical oral health indicators between asthmatic and non-asthmatic peers. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 89 child–parent pairs using a convenience sampling approach. Children with asthma were recruited from a hospital immunoallergology service, and healthy controls were recruited from a primary school. Data collection included parent-administered questionnaires on sociodemographic and behavioral factors, the Portuguese version of the SOHO-5 (child self-report and parent proxy forms), and standardized intraoral examinations assessing caries (WHO criteria, 5th edition), malocclusion, gingival bleeding, dental erosion, mucosal lesions, and molar–incisor hypomineralization. Stimulated salivary flow was measured. Bivariate statistical analyses and multivariable regression models were performed using SPSS (v.29), with a significance level set at p < 0.05. Results: Asthmatic children had significantly higher caries prevalence in both primary (52.6% vs. 27.5%, p = 0.027) and permanent dentition (32.4% vs. 0%, p < 0.001), as well as higher mean dmft scores (2.68 vs. 1.14, p = 0.026), reduced stimulated salivary flow (78.9% vs. 41.2% with low flow, p < 0.001), and worse child-reported SOHO-5 scores (mean 2.42 vs. 1.25, p = 0.004). After multivariable adjustment, asthma remained a significant independent predictor of low salivary flow (OR = 4.017, 95% CI: 1.443–11.178, p = 0.008), while the association with caries was attenuated and no longer significant (OR = 1.345, p = 0.590). Pain experience in the past year was the strongest predictor of OHRQoL across all multivariable models (SOHO-5 child: B = 1.583, p = 0.006; SOHO-5 total: B = 4.970, p < 0.001), indicating that children with pain history reported substantially worse OHRQoL. After adjustment, asthma did not reach statistical significance for either child-reported (B = 0.732, p = 0.090) or total OHRQoL scores (B = 0.693, p = 0.293). These findings should be interpreted cautiously given the limited number of covariates included in the models, constrained by the available sample size. Conclusions: Within the limitations of this cross-sectional study, including a small and non-probabilistic sample, asthmatic children presented a higher caries burden and a markedly higher prevalence of low stimulated salivary flow compared with non-asthmatic peers. Asthma remained a significant independent predictor of low salivary flow after multivariable adjustment, while the association with caries was attenuated, suggesting partial confounding by dietary habits. These findings highlight the importance of integrating oral health surveillance into the routine care of asthmatic children, with particular attention paid to salivary function and caries prevention. Full article

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13 pages, 461 KB

Open AccessArticle

Masticatory Function and Oral Health-Related Quality of Life After Immediate Prosthetic Therapy for Geriatric In-Hospital Patients: A Retrospective Cohort Study

by Michael Pampel, Jana Kraft and Johannes W. Kraft

Dent. J. 2026, 14(5), 268; https://doi.org/10.3390/dj14050268 - 4 May 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 663

Abstract

Objectives: The impact of dental and oral health conditions on the oral health state and oral health-related quality of life (OHRQL) in geriatric in-hospital (GIH) patients requires clarification. For this reason, this exploratory and hypothesis-generating study aimed to examine the associations between [...] Read more.

Objectives: The impact of dental and oral health conditions on the oral health state and oral health-related quality of life (OHRQL) in geriatric in-hospital (GIH) patients requires clarification. For this reason, this exploratory and hypothesis-generating study aimed to examine the associations between intra-oral risk factors (IRFs), masticatory functions (MFs), and treatment satisfaction (TS) in this context. Methods: This retrospective cohort study enrolled a total of 81 patients requiring immediate prosthetic treatment (IPT) by consultant dentists at Sana Hospital, Coburg, Germany. The evaluation focused on oral and dental state and MFs such as a modified DMFT and Eichner Index (EI), as well as on IRFs such as inflammation, mucogingival junction insufficiency (MGJI), severe bone crest atrophy (SBCA), and oral pain. The outcomes were measured after IPT using MF improvement (MFI) as the primary outcome and TS as the secondary outcome. Results: The outcomes (p < 0.05) were evaluated using objective measures such as the calculations of the EI, the EI modifications and the modified DMFT index. The results were associated, respectively, with the different IRFs and with specific SBCA. A total of 85% of GIH patients suffered from severe bone crest atrophy (SBCA), which showed a significant association with MF measured using EI after IPT (p = 0.001). MFI after IPT was associated with the EI before IPT (p < 0.000). The achieved MFI was finally associated with the untreated sample (all patients, p < 0.000) and with the presence or absence of the following IRFs at baseline: inflammation (p < 0.003), absence of oral pain (p < 0.000), presence of SBCA (p < 0.000), and absence of MFI (p < 0.000). A total of 78% of GIH patients confirmed treatment satisfaction (TS) after IPT, which was significantly and strongly associated with SBCA (p < 0.003). Conclusions: Oral health was primarily impaired by SBCA and can be measured by the analysis of EI and DMFT associations, which provided MFI and TS as outcomes for OHRQL. Full article

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31 pages, 848 KB

Open AccessArticle

Psychological and Social Trajectories During Dental Treatment: A Prospective Cohort Study on Oral Health-Related Quality of Life

by Marius Moroianu, Lavinia-Alexandra Moroianu, Oana-Maria Isailă, Cătălin Pleșea-Condratovici, Simona-Dana Mitincu-Caramfil and Mădălina Nicoleta Matei

Dent. J. 2026, 14(4), 223; https://doi.org/10.3390/dj14040223 - 9 Apr 2026

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1100

Abstract

Background: Patients undergoing dental treatment often experience psychological distress and social discomfort, yet longitudinal data on these changes are limited. Existing studies rely on cross-sectional designs or lengthy tools, reducing feasibility in routine practice. This study explored psychological and social trajectories during [...] Read more.

Background: Patients undergoing dental treatment often experience psychological distress and social discomfort, yet longitudinal data on these changes are limited. Existing studies rely on cross-sectional designs or lengthy tools, reducing feasibility in routine practice. This study explored psychological and social trajectories during dental care, highlighting challenges and implications for patient wellbeing and care delivery. Methods: A prospective cohort study with repeated measures across three dental visits (V1–V3) was conducted. Participants completed a 21-item binary (yes/no) questionnaire assessing psychological (Q1–Q6) and social dimensions (Q7–Q14 at all visits; extended social domain Q7–Q21 at V2–V3). Composite scores were calculated, and longitudinal changes were analyzed using generalized estimating equations or mixed-effects models. Item-level trajectories were examined with multiple comparison adjustments. Results: Of 120 enrolled patients, 100 completed all visits. Psychological well-being consistently improved, while social outcomes showed more complex, domain-specific patterns. Item-level analyses revealed gains in appearance and satisfaction, whereas stigma, fear, and social integration remained relatively stable, underscoring the need to monitor multiple psychosocial dimensions. Conclusions: Psychosocial monitoring during dental care is feasible and potentially beneficial. The 21-item questionnaire was practical and well-accepted, with composite scores serving as simple indicators for tracking patient wellbeing and supporting a holistic, patient-centered approach. Further validation in larger and more diverse populations is needed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Oral Health-Related Quality of Life and Its Determinants)

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15 pages, 891 KB

Open AccessArticle

Assessing the Relationship Between the Psychosocial Impact of Dental Aesthetics, Self-Esteem, and Dental Habits

by Mara Ștefania Șimon, Alexandru Grațian Grecu, Ioana Maria Colceriu-Șimon, Andrea Maria Chisnoiu, Cristina Gasparik and Diana Dudea

Dent. J. 2026, 14(3), 165; https://doi.org/10.3390/dj14030165 - 12 Mar 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1718

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Dental aesthetics has been shown to be associated with psychosocial functioning and self-perception, underscoring the importance of integrating psychosocial considerations into holistic patient care. This study assessed self-perceived dental aesthetics, self-esteem, and dental habits among dental medicine students in relation to [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Dental aesthetics has been shown to be associated with psychosocial functioning and self-perception, underscoring the importance of integrating psychosocial considerations into holistic patient care. This study assessed self-perceived dental aesthetics, self-esteem, and dental habits among dental medicine students in relation to socio-demographic factors and dental knowledge. Methods: A cross-sectional survey of 172 students from the Dental Medicine Faculty in Cluj-Napoca, Romania, was conducted. The sample was divided into two groups, based on their prior education in dentistry: Level 1 students at the beginning of their studies, without any prior dental medicine experience, and Level 2 students with basic knowledge in the field of dentistry at the end of their preclinical years. After informed consent, participants completed the Psychosocial Impact of Dental Aesthetics Questionnaire (PIDAQ), the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES), and questions on oral hygiene and socio-demographics. Subscale and overall questionnaire scores were computed and statistically analysed using Pearson’s correlations and independent-samples t-tests to examine relationships among self-perceived dental aesthetics and self-esteem and differences between variables. Results: A negative correlation was found between the psychosocial impact of dental aesthetics and overall self-esteem scores (p = 0.006). Greater aesthetic concerns were associated with lower self-esteem (p = 0.003), although the magnitude of correlation was small. Female participants had higher social impact scores for dental aesthetics (p = 0.039), whereas male students reported higher self-esteem (p = 0.047). Students from Level 2 group presented higher self-esteem than Level 1 (p = 0.016). Regarding oral hygiene, a small but statistically significant association was found between dental flossing frequency and aesthetic concern scores (p = 0.044). Additionally, individuals who frequently attended dental check-ups reported a more favourable self-image. Conclusions: Self-perceived dental aesthetics correlates with self-esteem among dental students, varying by gender and academic level. The Dental Self-Confidence subscale of the PIDAQ had the greatest perceived impact, underscoring the importance of self-image for dental students’ psychological and social well-being. Dental flossing and regular dental consultations appear to be linked to improved self-perceived dental aesthetics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Oral Health-Related Quality of Life and Its Determinants)

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12 pages, 258 KB

Open AccessArticle

Relationship of Smile Esthetics and Quality of Life Among High-School Adolescents in Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia: An Analytic Cross-Sectional Study

by Mohammed Alshaghdali, Syed Bokhari, Fatimah Bu Hulayqah and Yousef Almugla

Dent. J. 2026, 14(1), 19; https://doi.org/10.3390/dj14010019 - 2 Jan 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 976

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Adolescents may experience psychosocial consequences from minor dentofacial variations. The relationship between objectively rated smile esthetics and self-reported psychosocial impact remains under-studied in Saudi adolescents. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between the objectively measured smile esthetics with the subjectively [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Adolescents may experience psychosocial consequences from minor dentofacial variations. The relationship between objectively rated smile esthetics and self-reported psychosocial impact remains under-studied in Saudi adolescents. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between the objectively measured smile esthetics with the subjectively reported psychosocial impact of perceived smile esthetics. Methods: Cross-sectional, multistage cluster-stratified sample technique was used to study adolescents aged 15–20 years (n = 344) from Al-Ahsa schools. Standardized extra-/intraoral photography supported Dental Esthetic Screening Index (DESI) scoring and psychosocial impact using Arabic Psychosocial Impact of Dental Aesthetics Questionnaire (PIDAQ) were applied. Reliability was assessed through two-way mixed intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), Bland–Altman analysis, standard error of measurement (SEM), and minimal detectable change at the 95% confidence level (MDC95). Associations were examined using correlations and regression models. Results: The distribution of DESI categories was excellent (6.4%), good (29.7%), satisfactory (42.2%), insufficient (18.9%), and poor (2.9%). The distribution of PIDAQ impact levels was minimal (37.8%), slight (41.6%), moderate (18.0%), and significant (2.6%) (age p = 0.052; sex p = 0.417). DESI and total PIDAQ were weakly correlated (Spearman ρ = 0.248, 95% CI 0.143–0.347; p < 0.001). In a multivariable linear regression model with continuous PIDAQ total score as the outcome (R² = 0.525; adjusted R² = 0.516; p < 0.001), self-perceived smile dissatisfaction (B = 7.789; β = 0.478; p < 0.001) and tooth-color dissatisfaction (B = 4.099; β = 0.306; p < 0.001) showed the strongest associations with higher PIDAQ scores, while DESI total score showed a smaller association (B = 0.310; β = 0.120; p = 0.002). Age and sex were not significant predictors after adjustment. Conclusions: Objective smile esthetics were modestly associated with psychosocial impact, whereas adolescents’ self-perceived smile and tooth-color dissatisfaction were strongly associated with worse psychosocial outcomes. Although the smile esthetics may be clinically acceptable, adolescents can still experience reduced oral health-related quality of life due to the psychosocial impact of perceived dental esthetics. These findings support incorporating brief subjective questions on smile and tooth-color perception alongside objective assessment during routine adolescent dental care. Full article

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15 pages, 286 KB

Open AccessArticle

by Patrícia João, Ana Coelho Canta and Sónia Mendes

Dent. J. 2025, 13(9), 425; https://doi.org/10.3390/dj13090425 - 15 Sep 2025

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1980

Abstract

Introduction: Type 1 diabetes mellitus (DM1) can influence oral health, increasing susceptibility to various oral manifestations. Objectives: This study aimed to characterise oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL), reported oral symptoms, and oral health behaviours in paediatric individuals with DM1, and compare them [...] Read more.

Introduction: Type 1 diabetes mellitus (DM1) can influence oral health, increasing susceptibility to various oral manifestations. Objectives: This study aimed to characterise oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL), reported oral symptoms, and oral health behaviours in paediatric individuals with DM1, and compare them with those without DM1; as well as to identify factors associated with OHRQoL in both groups. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using an online questionnaire completed by caregivers of Portuguese children with or without DM1. The questionnaire collected information on sociodemographic, oral health behaviours, perceived oral health, reported oral manifestations, and OHRQoL using the Early Childhood Oral Health Impact Scale (ECOHIS). Descriptive statistics were calculated, along with chi-square tests and negative binomial regression analyses (α = 0.05). Results: The sample included 235 individuals (115 with DM1 and 120 without). No significant differences were observed in overall OHRQoL between the groups, although children with DM1 had slightly higher ECOHIS total scores (4.38 vs. 4.02). Oral health behaviours were comparable in both groups. Children with DM1 reported significantly more xerostomia (p < 0.001). Within the DM1 group, better OHRQoL was significantly related to the following variables: female sex, absence of caries, absence of gingivitis, and no taste changes. In contrast, in the non-DM1 group, OHRQoL was associated with different conditions: the caregiver perception, frequent sugar intake, recurrent aphthous stomatitis, burning mouth sensations, and age. Conclusion: Although OHRQoL levels and oral health behaviours were similar between children with and without DM1, the factors influencing these outcomes varied considerably, emphasising the need for targeted oral health strategies tailored to the specific context of this chronic condition. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Oral Health-Related Quality of Life and Its Determinants)

15 pages, 345 KB

Open AccessArticle

A Survey of Oral Health-Related Quality of Life for Adults with Cerebral Palsy in Australia

by Karen Lansdown, Kim Bulkeley, Margaret McGrath, Michelle Irving, Claudia Zagreanu and Hayley Smithers-Sheedy

Dent. J. 2025, 13(9), 407; https://doi.org/10.3390/dj13090407 - 4 Sep 2025

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1725

Abstract

Objective: Our aim was to investigate the oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) and dental care experiences of adults with Cerebral Palsy (CP). Methods: In 2023, adults with CP and their caregivers from four Australian states completed questionnaires, including the Oral Health Impact [...] Read more.

Objective: Our aim was to investigate the oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) and dental care experiences of adults with Cerebral Palsy (CP). Methods: In 2023, adults with CP and their caregivers from four Australian states completed questionnaires, including the Oral Health Impact Profile-14 (OHIP-14). Non-parametric tests were conducted to analyze associations between demographic and CP-related variables and OHRQoL. Results: A total of 69 respondents participated, including n = 22 adults with CP and n = 47 caregivers of adults with CP. Most adults with CP were diagnosed with a spastic motor type (46/69, 66%), with bilateral spasticity being the most common (30/46, 65%). The mean OHIP-14 score was 10.3 ± 9.3 (mean ± SD). Nearly 70% reported challenges cleaning their teeth, over 25% lacked a dentist, more than 60% found dental exams challenging, and nearly 50% required specialized dental care. In bivariate analysis, OHIP-14 was associated with daily oral care routines (p = 0.012) and “simple dental check-up” (p = 0.017). There was a statistically significant relationship between socio-economic status and scores for the handicap dimension (p = 0.040). Higher OHIP-14 scores were associated with greater levels of impairment regarding gross motor (p = 0.199), manual functioning limitations (p = 0.001), speech (p = 0.123), and communication function scales (p = 0.319). Conclusion: Adults with CP reported challenges participating in and maintaining oral health and accessing dental care, influenced by physical, functional, and socio-economic factors. These findings indicate the need for inclusive care and strategies to support access to services. Full article

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14 pages, 252 KB

Open AccessArticle

Oral Health Status, Behavior, and Knowledge of Patients with Cardiovascular Disease and Associated Risk Factors in Odisha: A Cross-Sectional Survey

by Lora Mishra, Muskan Sharma, Naomi Ranjan Singh, Gathani Dash, Satya Ranjan Misra, Krzysztof Sokolowski, Manoj Kumar, Rupsa Das, Suresh Kumar Behera and Barbara Lapinska

Dent. J. 2025, 13(9), 401; https://doi.org/10.3390/dj13090401 - 1 Sep 2025

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2613

Abstract

Background: Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are linked with poor oral health outcomes, yet data on oral health status, behaviors, and awareness among CVD patients in Odisha remain scarce. This study aimed to assess the self-reported oral health status, behaviors, and knowledge among patients with [...] Read more.

Background: Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are linked with poor oral health outcomes, yet data on oral health status, behaviors, and awareness among CVD patients in Odisha remain scarce. This study aimed to assess the self-reported oral health status, behaviors, and knowledge among patients with CVD and associated risk factors. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 391 patients aged 40–80 years attending dental and cardiology OPDs at a tertiary care center in Bhubaneswar. Participants were grouped into control, at-risk, and established CVD categories. A 24-item questionnaire and panoramic radiographic examination were used to assess oral health. Data were analyzed using the chi-squared test and Kappa statistics. Results: Patients with established CVD reported significantly higher prevalence of oral health problems, poor oral hygiene behaviors, and lower awareness compared to controls. Clinical findings revealed higher rates of periodontal bone loss, caries, and periapical radiolucency in the CVD group. Agreement between radiographic examiners was high. Conclusions: There is a substantial burden of oral disease and poor oral health awareness among patients with CVD in Odisha. These findings emphasize the need for integrated oral health education and care protocols in cardiovascular patient management. Full article

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20 pages, 799 KB

Open AccessArticle

Determinants of Oral Health Outcomes and Quality of Life in Diabetic Patients from Western Romania: A Behavioral Model Approach

by Iulia Alexa, Ramona Dumitrescu, Doina Chioran, Octavia Balean, Vanessa Bolchis, Ruxandra Sava-Rosianu, Simona Popescu, Atena Galuscan and Daniela Jumanca

Dent. J. 2025, 13(6), 247; https://doi.org/10.3390/dj13060247 - 30 May 2025

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3579

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Oral health and diabetes are closely linked through shared inflammatory, behavioral, and socioeconomic factors. This study examined the determinants of oral health outcomes and oral-health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) in Romanian diabetic patients using Andersen’s Behavioral Model. Methods: A cross-sectional [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Oral health and diabetes are closely linked through shared inflammatory, behavioral, and socioeconomic factors. This study examined the determinants of oral health outcomes and oral-health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) in Romanian diabetic patients using Andersen’s Behavioral Model. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in early 2025 among 79 diabetic patients at a public clinic in Western Romania. Data were collected through questionnaires, clinical oral exams, and the OHIP-14 instrument. Variables were analyzed using Andersen’s Behavioral Model and standard statistical tests, including regression and correlation analyses. Results: Participants had a mean age of 61.2 years; 86.1% had type 2 diabetes and 13.9% type 1. Over 49% reported gingival bleeding, and 38% experienced dental sensitivity. Regression analysis identified limited awareness (OR = 2.21, p = 0.033) and low income (OR = 1.89, p = 0.041) as significant predictors of periodontal symptoms. OHIP-14 scores were weakly correlated with glycemic control (r = 0.17) and dental sensitivity (r = 0.16) but not with objective periodontal parameters. Rural residence, lower education levels, and poor awareness were associated with reduced service utilization and poorer perceived oral health. Conclusions: This study highlights the impact of behavioral, clinical, and socioeconomic factors on oral condition and OHRQoL. Oral health should be integrated into chronic disease care, with prevention-focused strategies aimed at improving access and reducing disparities, especially in older and rural populations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Oral Health-Related Quality of Life and Its Determinants)

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14 pages, 251 KB

Open AccessArticle

Oral Health and Quality of Life in Acromegaly: A Questionnaire-Based Study

by Giovanni Bruno, Francesca Dassie, Giorgia Preo, Ayoub Boutarbouche, Sara Brandolese, Pietro Maffei, Patrizio Bollero, Antonio Gracco, Michele Basilicata and Alberto De Stefani

Dent. J. 2025, 13(6), 226; https://doi.org/10.3390/dj13060226 - 22 May 2025

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3158

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Acromegaly is a rare chronic disease caused by excess growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth hormone 1 (IGF-1) due to a pituitary adenoma. In acromegaly patients, oral and facial manifestations, such as mandibular growth, macroglossia, and dental malocclusion, are common and [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Acromegaly is a rare chronic disease caused by excess growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth hormone 1 (IGF-1) due to a pituitary adenoma. In acromegaly patients, oral and facial manifestations, such as mandibular growth, macroglossia, and dental malocclusion, are common and can affect quality of life. The aims of the present study were to evaluate the diagnostic path of these patients, the impact that acromegaly had on their oral health, the medical figures involved, and the role played by their dentist. Methods: The data were collected via an anonymous questionnaire to study dental health, dental care, and acromegaly diagnosis and history and via validated questionnaires. The validated questionnaires used were the ESS (Epworth Sleepiness Scale) to assess daytime sleepiness, OHIP-14 (Oral Health Impact Profile-14) to study perceptions of oral health, and AcroQoL to explore quality of life. Results: We enrolled 90 acromegaly patients: 48% of the patients reported acromegaly oral manifestations and 73% reported facial changes. The most frequent oro-facial manifestations reported by the patients were jaw growth (41%), diastema (40%), macroglossia (39%), and increased size of cheekbones (35%). The median OHIP-14 value was 5 (min 0–max 43), and the highest values were recorded in the questions relating to pronunciation difficulties and problems eating due to dental problems, as well as discomfort with dental aesthetics. The patients’ sleep quality was rated as good by 33% of patients, decent by 47%, and bad by 20%. The median ACROQol score achieved by the patients was 69 (min 19, max 98). An inverse and statistically significant correlation was observed between OHIP-14 and AcroQoL scores (Spearman correlation coefficient—0.44, p = 0.0002). Conclusions: Oro-facial changes significantly affect quality of life in cases of acromegaly, yet dental professionals’ involvement in diagnosis and management is limited. Greater awareness among and integration of dental professionals could support earlier detection and improve patient outcomes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Oral Health-Related Quality of Life and Its Determinants)

11 pages, 214 KB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of Dental Treatment, Including Multiple Extractions, Under General Anaesthesia on Children’s Oral Health-Related Quality of Life: A Prospective Study

by Haneen Baty, Ibtesam Alzain, Medhat Abdulla and Khlood Baghlaf

Dent. J. 2025, 13(5), 202; https://doi.org/10.3390/dj13050202 - 1 May 2025

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3212

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Children who undergo several dental extractions with general anesthesia (GA) may face considerable changes in their oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL), but there is a lack of research on this issue in the Middle East. Aim: This study aimed to assess [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Children who undergo several dental extractions with general anesthesia (GA) may face considerable changes in their oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL), but there is a lack of research on this issue in the Middle East. Aim: This study aimed to assess how the number of dental extractions performed under general anaesthesia due to caries impacts the oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) in children aged from three to six years. Methods: This prospective, single-center cohort study included parents of children aged 3–6 years undergoing dental treatment under general anaesthesia in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Parents completed the validated Arabic Early Childhood Oral Health Impact Scale (A-ECOHIS) before and after treatment to assess changes in OHRQoL. The number of extractions was recorded, and patients were grouped based on extraction frequency: high (≥mean) and low (<mean). Pearson’s correlation was used to evaluate the relationship between the number of extractions and the effect size of OHRQoL. Results: Ninety-three participants met the inclusion criteria and agreed to participate in this study. The mean age of the children was 4.88 years (SD ± 1.06). The most common procedure performed was extraction, with a mean of 5.34 (SD ± 5.53), followed by stainless-steel crown application, with a mean of 4.03 (SD ± 2.01). No correlation between the number of extractions and the effect size in the change in OHRQoL was noted (Pearson r = −0.002, p-value = 0.98). Conclusions: Dental extractions were the most common procedure performed under GA. While multiple extractions showed no significant association with the effect size of OHRQoL, overall treatment under GA led to significant improvement. These findings highlight the need for timely intervention, parental education, and comprehensive treatment protocols. Utilizing tools like ECOHIS may aid in prioritizing high-risk cases and optimizing resource allocation in pediatric dental care. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Oral Health-Related Quality of Life and Its Determinants)

Review

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22 pages, 698 KB

Open AccessReview

Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP) as a Tool for the Assessment of the Oral Health-Related Quality of Life—A Scoping Review

by Łukasz Wojszko, Karolina Banaszek, Oliwia Gagacka and Joanna Bagińska

Dent. J. 2025, 13(11), 490; https://doi.org/10.3390/dj13110490 - 23 Oct 2025

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 5087

Abstract

Background/Objectives: The Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP) is the most widely used tool for OHRQoL assessment. The measure has several versions, but there is no comprehensive summary of available Oral Health Impact Profile variants. The purpose of this scoping review is to [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: The Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP) is the most widely used tool for OHRQoL assessment. The measure has several versions, but there is no comprehensive summary of available Oral Health Impact Profile variants. The purpose of this scoping review is to identify and summarize Oral Health Impact Profile versions for the adult population available in the literature. Methods: PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases were searched on 25–28 May 2025 to find papers presenting the Oral Health Impact Profile versions’ development process. Records written in English without any time restrictions were included. The Joanna Briggs Institute framework for scoping reviews was applied. The PRISMA-ScR approach was followed. Results: In total, 11 generic OHIP scales (the OHIP version that was not targeted at any specific condition) and 16 condition-specified OHIP scales were found. The analysis revealed a wide variety of number of items (from 49 to 5), recall period (from one year to one week), rating scale (4-0; 5-0; 5-1; 6-1; 1, 0, and −1), dimensionality of scale (7, 4, or 3 dimensions, 2–6 factors, or unidimensional), and validation process. Conclusions: Differences in OHIP features have to be taken into account during a comparison of results from different studies. Due to the availability of various tools, the idea of creating new versions of the OHIP should be considered with caution. Researchers should carefully select the appropriate OHIP version for their purposes, as the process of adapting the tool to a new language and culture is time-consuming and expensive. Full article

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