Quality of Life-Related to Oral Health in Post-COVID-19 Primary Care Patients

Abstract: The persistence of residual symptoms in post-COVID-19 patients has been identified as a factor that negatively affects quality of life, especially in aspects related to oral health. The purpose of the study was to determine the quality of life-related to oral health in primary care patients who had overcome the COVID-19 infection. A descriptive, non-experimental study was developed with the participation of 361 post-COVID-19 patients, to whom the survey was applied: Impact of oral health on Quality of Life (OHIP-14). The participants were mostly women (52.9%), and adults (55.4%), with occupations in the field of health (16.6%), and higher education (76.5%). Data were collected on history of COVID-19, severity of infection, hospitalization, comorbidities, risk perception, fear of the virus, presence of post-COVID-19 sequelae, and adult life stage. The analysis revealed that oral health-related quality of life in post-COVID-19 primary care patients is significantly lower. The perception of dental and oral problems during the period is correlated with a greater impact on quality of life in terms of oral health. Homogeneous distribution of the average and median values was observed in dimensions such as functional limitation, physical pain, social disability, and handicap. However, in comparison, the dimensions of physical and psychological disability stand out as the most affected. The results indicate that oral problems in this phase significantly impact the quality of life, highlighting the need for specific interventions to improve recovery and well-being. A comprehensive approach can help manage sequelae and improve the quality of life for these patients. Keywords: Quality of life, Oral Health, COVID-19, Primary care