COVID impact on oral health-related quality of life: A cross-sectional study

Background The coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) has become a Public Health Emergency of International Concern as the outbreak continues all over the world. Till date, literature on oral manifestations of COVID-19 and its influence on quality of life was limited. Henceforth, it is important to rule out the impact of novel viruses on the oral cavity and focus on patient-centered care from various aspects. This study aims to measure self-reported dysfunction, discomfort, and disability attributed to oral health conditions during SARS-CoV-2 infection and recovery. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional questionnaire survey was designed, and an oral health impact profile (OHIP-14) was used to assess the impact of COVID-19 infection on oral health. The survey was performed through online platforms and telephone interviews on COVID-19 recovered subjects. The questionnaire included consent forms, demographic data, OHIP-14 questions, and open-ended questions related to oral symptoms. Logistic regression analysis was done for the association between demographic data and OHIP-14. Result: Alteration in taste sensation was experienced by 60% of subjects followed by uncomfortable to have food by 45%. Functional limitations are raised significantly with age. Psychological discomfort, physical disability, psychological disability, social disability, and being handicapped significantly raised in higher income groups. Ulcers (15.9%) and foul breath (11.3%) were the most reported oral symptoms. Conclusion: Oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) has deteriorated after COVID-19 infection. Aging, less education, and high income negatively influenced OHRQoL during the pandemic.