Evaluation of the Soft Tissue Effects of Early Childhood Caries on Oral Health-Related Quality of Life: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Abstract Early Childhood Caries (ECC) is a prevalent oral disease that primarily affects children. The objective of this study was to examine the prevalence of ECC, the extent of caries, and its impact on soft tissue and oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) in children aged 3–6 years using the Early Childhood Oral Health Impact Scale (ECOHIS). The study participants comprised 300 children in the specified age range and their respective parents or caregivers. Clinical examinations of the children were carried out using the dmft, pufa, and ICDAS II indexes. Thereafter, the ECOHIS was administered through personal interviews with the parents or caregivers. The findings revealed a significant negative influence of ECC on OHRQoL (p < 0.05). The overall mean ECOHIS score was 0.62 ± 0.552, with significantly higher scores in children with a pufa index score > 0 than in those with a pufa index score of = 0 (p < 0.05). Children with deep caries had significantly higher ECOHIS scores than those with initial caries (p < 0.05). Early detection and management of caries play a vital role in enhancing the OHRQoL of children and their families. Parents and dental practitioners should be well-informed and proactive in implementing preventive measures to promote better oral health outcomes.