Utilization of Dental Care, Tooth Loss, and Oral Health-Related Quality of Life in Older Adults Visiting Dental Care Centers in Indian Settings.

Background: Oral disease prevalence is rising globally in a major way, with a heavier impact and concern on developing countries like India. Also, limited data in literature has previously assessed oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) in older adults in Indian settings.

Aims: The present study aimed to evaluate OHRQoL in older adults seeking dental care in Indian settings.

Methods: In 140 subjects, an oral examination to detect any oral condition was done followed by filling out a questionnaire for OHRQoL assessment using the Geriatric Oral Health Assessment Index 12 (GOHAI-12). The treatment needs of each study subject were governed by prosthetic and dental status individually. Statistical evaluation of the data collected was done to formulate the results.

Results: Concerning age, a significant impact was seen, where increasing age was associated with poor quality of life (p=0.025). For gender, older females had poor OHRQoL with p-values of <0.001, 0.01, 0.04, and <0.001 respectively for behaviour, psychological, pain and discomfort, and functional limitation. Also, edentulous patients had poorer OHRQoL compared to subjects with >20 teeth Conclusion: The present study concludes that oral diseases can significantly affect the OHRQoL, with higher female and edentulous state preponderance. Early diagnosis and management can aid in improving QoL in older adults.