Oral health related quality of life: a review

Abstract

The concept of oral health related quality of life is a relatively new field of research, which examines the functional, social and economic consequences of oral conditions on daily life and well-being. It is now considered as an essential component of assessing oral health of individuals and populations and also outcomes of health care. Several dental researchers have developed measures to assess the effects of oral disorders on the functional, social and psychological well-being. The significant lack of and need for social indicators and a comprehensive approach to measuring the social and psychologic impacts of dental disease has been highlighted in several recent reports.