Effect of Oral-Related Quality of Life and Sexual Function in Dentally Compromised Women: A Prospective Cohort Study

Oral health and edentulism significantly impact quality of life (QoL). However, the relationship between oral health-related quality of life (OHQoL) and sexual function remains unclear.

To assess OHQoL and the prevalence of sexual dysfunction (SD) in women before and after oral rehabilitation.

The study involved 102 women (aged 40-70 years) scheduled for prosthodontic treatment with incomplete natural dentition. Assessments were conducted using the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-14) and Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) questionnaires at three timepoints: T0 (before treatment), T1 (1 month after), and T2 (3 months after prosthodontic treatment). Statistical analyses included Kruskal-Wallis, Friedman tests, and Spearman's rank correlation test (P < 0.05).

Significant differences were observed in total FSFI scores at T0 (18.1 ± 3.2), T1 (19.2 ± 3.4), and T2 (21.6 ± 3.7) (P < 0.001). The prevalence of SD was 89.6% at T0, 84.2% at T1, and 79.3% at T2. Scores in all FSFI domains improved significantly post-treatment (P < 0.001). Mean OHIP scores were 30.6 ± 2.7 at T0, 17.7 ± 4.1 at T1, and 10.2 ± 2.8 at T2 (P < 0.001). Scores in all OHIP-14 domains decreased significantly after dental treatment, reflecting improved OHQoL. Significant correlations were found between total OHIP-14 and FSFI scores at T0 (r = -0.31, P = 0.01), T1 (r = -0.51, P = 0.021), and T2 (r = -0.80, P < 0.001).

OHQoL is associated with sexual function in women. Following dental treatment and oral rehabilitation, FSFI scores increased, and the prevalence of SD decreased.