Tooth mobility and the impact on quality of life

a preliminary study

Abstract

Purpose: To evaluate the impact of tooth mobility on quality of life. Methods: This cross sectional study was performed with adult patients of both sexes were examined at UFMA dental clinics to evaluate 487 teeth being 138 with mobility. There were collected personal data and clinical parameters for periodontal diagnosis. The OHIP-14 (Oral Health Impact Profile) questionnaire was used to assess tooth mobility (degree 1 to 3) on the quality of life. A descriptive analysis was performed, using absolute and relative frequencies of the personal data, periodontal diagnosis and OHIP-14 applications. The association between the variables was verified by the chi-square test with significance level of 5%. Results: It was observed that the degree of impact on the quality of life ranging from weak to medium, and that the most affected teeth were the lower incisors and the less affected were the upper canines. Grade 1 of mobility was the most common. Conclusion: The impact of tooth mobility, in general, has shown little effect on the quality of life. Key words: Tooth Mobility, Quality of Life, Surveys and Questionnaires.