Periodontal condition and quality of life in patients with controlled chronic systemic diseases: A cross-sectional study.

Abstract

Background: Chronic systemic diseases and periodontal diseases have an impact on an individual's quality of life. Both conditions exacerbate an individual's health status.

Objectives: The aim of the study was to examine whether periodontal condition could have an impact on the overall quality of life in patients with controlled chronic systemic diseases.

Material and methods: This cross-sectional study included 252 male and female subjects, aged ≥18 years, with a minimum of 6 teeth, and under medical follow-up for chronic systemic diseases. The following exclusion criteria were used: pregnant or lactating women; psychological or neurological limitations; uncontrolled chronic systemic disease; undergoing chemotherapy, radiotherapy, periodontal treatment, or tooth whitening; or use of an orthodontic appliance within the previous 3 months. The Medical Outcomes Study (MOS) 36-Item Short-Form Survey (SF-36) was used to assess the impact of periodontal health on patients' overall quality of life. To assess self-perception of periodontal condition, a self-reported periodontal disease measurement questionnaire was used. The periodontal assessment was performed by 2 calibrated dentists. Anamnesis forms were completed to collect sociodemographic, behavioral and medical diagnostic data, as well as to identify risk factors.

Results: The majority of the study participants were ≤50 years old (51%), female (65%), had a low education level (≤12 years of study) (60%), and resided in low-income households (93%). The study found no association between periodontal condition and quality of life. The majority of individuals with tooth mobility and 3-10 natural teeth were diagnosed with stage III and stage IV periodontitis. No significant relationship was identified between chronic systemic diseases and periodontitis.

Conclusions: Periodontal disease has been demonstrated to have no effect on the overall quality of life of individuals with controlled chronic systemic diseases. Self-reported cases of periodontal diseases corresponded with the clinical condition. Chronic systemic diseases were not identified as a risk factor for the development of periodontitis.