The impact of hypodontia on the oral health-related quality of life in children

Kotecha, Sheena (2012). The impact of hypodontia on the oral health-related quality of life in children. University of Birmingham. M.Phil.

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Abstract

Aims: The purpose of this cross-sectional survey was to evaluate the psychosocial impact of hypodontia in children and to investigate the potential influence of gender, socioeconomic status, severity of hypodontia and the number of retained deciduous teeth on their quality of life.
Method: A total of 86 children (36 male, 50 female) with hypodontia, aged 11-14 years were recruited from the Birmingham Dental Hospital, United Kingdom. Thirty subjects without hypodontia and having a low treatment need acted as controls. Children completed the validated Child Perceptions Questionnaire (CPQ) and their parents completed the Parental-Caregiver Perceptions Questionnaire (P-CPQ).
Results: The median number of missing teeth in the sample population was 6. There were significant differences in the oral symptoms, functional limitations and the social and emotional well-being reported between the hypodontia and control groups. The overall CPQ scores were significantly higher in children with hypodontia (p<0.001). No significant correlation was detected between the number of missing teeth and the quality of life score. There was no influence found on the CPQ score from gender, socioeconomic status, the site of hypodontia or the presence of retained deciduous teeth. There was moderate correlation between parental and child reported quality of life.
Conclusions: Hypodontia can have a significant psychosocial impact on the quality of life of children. This study has implications for our understanding of the effect of hypodontia on the quality of life of children and their parents.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Masters by Research > M.Phil.)

Award Type:

Masters by Research > M.Phil.

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