Factors associated with Oral Health Related Quality of Life in children: literature review

ABSTRACT

Quality of Life (QoL) refers to a concept that might comprise different levels, which are able to identify the biological, economic, social and psychological demands from individual level up to community level. The concept of oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) refers to the ability of performing daily activities and considers subjective aspects such as happiness, social well-being and emotional well-being, in order to know people's perception about their life. The aim of this article is to review the main factors associated with OHRQoL in children. Socioeconomic status, family structure, overcrowded homes, number of children, parent's educational attainment and psychological factors, among others, were significant predictors for children's OHRQoL. In Chile, there is a scarcity of OHRQoL in children and adolescents. The knowledge of OHRQoL might help to improve the development of programs and the effective-ness of oral health services, since it allows the assessment of small children, perceived needs and effectiveness of treatment strategies