ASSESSMENT OF ORAL HEALTH-RELATED QUALITY OF LIFE AMONG ELDERLY PATIENTS WITH PERIODONTAL DISEASE

Introduction: The aim of this study was to assess the impact of oral health-related quality of life in elderly patients with periodontal disease. Materials and Method: In total, 110 elderly patients (age range 65 to 92) were included in this study. The Geriatric Oral Health Assessment Index questionnaire was used to determine the perceived oral health-related quality of life of the participants. Gingival index, plaque index, clinical attachment level, probing pocket depth, and bleeding on probing measurements were performed to determine the periodontal status. Results: The total Geriatric Oral Health Assessment Index score was significantly higher among elderly patients with severe periodontitis (25.69 +/- 6.80) than among those with gingivitis (21.35 +/- 7.01). Higher scores indicate a poorer oral health-related quality of life among elders with periodontal disease. Furthermore, this score was significantly associated with gingival recession, mobile teeth, and oral malodor (p<0.05). Conclusion: As the severity of periodontal disease increases, a poorer oral health-related quality of life is observed. Having an overview of the adverse effects of periodontal problems on the daily life of elderly patients will facilitate the understanding of the relationship between general health and oral health. Additionally, the assessment of oral health-related quality of life may play an important role in clinical practice regarding identification of patients' oral health conditions and treatment needs and improving patient communication.