Challenges in oral health-related quality of life assessment

Abstract

Oral health is an important part of general health, and the overall quality of life directly depends on preserving the function of the orofacial system. The use of exclusively clinical parameters does not adequately present functional and psychosocial aspects of oral health and individual?s needs. Therefore, the concept of oral health-related quality of life (OHRQOL) is introduced to assess the impact of oral diseases on overall well-being. Numerous questionnaires and scales adapted to the needs of different population groups are used for this purpose. The OHRQOL measurement facilitates the screening of hidden oral health problems in population and directs the design of public health programs following the population?s health needs. Although the use of OHRQOL assessment tools has improved significantly in the recent years, it is still underrepresented in clinical practice. There is a need to increase the use of the OHRQOL assessment questionnaire in clinical practice in order to improve communication between dentists and patients, facilitate the evaluation of final therapeutic outcomes and improve the quality of dental health care.