Related Experiment Video
Updated: Dec 10, 2025

Oral Health Assessment by Lay Personnel for Older Adults
Published on: February 2, 2020
Preschool oral health-related quality of life: A practical guide to measurement tools
Corinna S Culler1, Duwaraka Gunarajasingam2, Michelle M Henshaw1
1Global & Population Health, Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine, Boston, MA, USA.
Objective:
The purpose of this paper is to describe currently available measurement tools for assessing oral health-related quality of life (OHQoL) in preschool aged children to aid clinicians and researchers in selection of the appropriate tool for their needs.
Methods:
The authors describe and compare eight OHRQoL tools that were created or adapted for use among preschoolers, including the Child Oral Health Impact Profile-Preschool, Dental Discomfort Questionnaire, Early Childhood Oral Health Impact Scale, Michigan-OHRQoL, Parental-Caregiver Perceptions Questionnaire and Family Impact Scale, Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory-Oral Health Scale, Pediatric Oral Health-Related Quality of Life, and Scale of Oral Health Outcomes for 5-year-old children.
Results:
The tools vary by their intended target population, oral condition of interest, intended setting for use, and method of administration. They also vary in the number of items or questions included and the domains covered by those items. Unique features and strengths of each are highlighted.
Conclusion:
A variety of tools exist for measuring OHQoL in preschoolers, this article provides an overview that can facilitate selection for specific intended uses.
Related Concept Videos
Assessment of the Mouth
Mouth Inspection
The inspection begins with visually examining the mouth for symmetry, color, and size.
Oral Cavity
Teeth: The teeth are the hardest structures in our bodies. Humans have two sets of teeth throughout their lifetime: deciduous (baby) teeth and permanent teeth. Each tooth consists of several parts: the crown (visible part), the root (embedded in the jaw), enamel (hard outer...
Assessment of Respiration
Subjective Assessment: Nurses interview the patient to gather information directly during the subjective assessment. It includes questions about the individual's medical history, medications, and symptoms, focusing on past respiratory conditions like...
Assessment of Ventilation I: Respiratory Rate
A Ventilation assessment is critical for monitoring a patient's health status. Respiration, one of the most accessible vital signs, provides insights into the function of numerous body systems and can indicate serious health issues, such as brainstem injuries from head trauma.
Critical Guidelines for Assessing Ventilation:
Assessing Body Temperature - Oral
Step 1:
Start by practicing proper hand hygiene to prevent the spread of microorganisms.
Step 2:
Take the thermometer out of the charging unit, switch it on, and wait for the ready sign.
Step 3:
Gently slide the probe cover until a click is heard. This simple action prevents cross-contamination and ensures the correct placement of the probe cover.
Step 4:
Instruct the patient to open their mouth and place...
Assessment of the Gastrointestinal System II: Health Perception Pattern
Health Perception Patterns
Health perception patterns offer valuable insights into a patient's lifestyle habits and how they may impact their GI health. These patterns include:

