Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 3, 2025
Oral Health Assessment by Lay Personnel for Older Adults
Published on: February 2, 2020
Disabilities and Disparities in Oral Health-Related Quality of Life: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis in Saudi
Faris Yahya I Asiri1,2, Marc Tennant2, Estie Kruger2
1Department of Preventive Dental Sciences, College of Dentistry, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia.
Abstract:
Background and Objectives: In Saudi Arabia, persons with disabilities (PWDs) face considerable oral health challenges, including a higher prevalence of dental caries and gingival inflammation, which adversely affects their oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL). This population experiences distinct and substantial barriers in accessing adequate dental care. This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to quantify disparities in OHRQoL between PWDs and individuals without disabilities in Saudi Arabia, focusing on caries and gingivitis prevalence, and to identify specific areas for intervention. Materials and Methods: A structured search of PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar yielded 803 articles, of which seven met the inclusion criteria. These studies reported on OHRQoL and oral health outcomes in populations with autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, and hearing impairments. Data on caries rates, gingival health, and self- or caregiver-reported quality of life were extracted and analysed. Results: PWDs in Saudi Arabia exhibit significantly higher caries prevalence (ranging from 60% to over 80%) and moderate-to-severe gingival inflammation (up to 60%) compared to individuals without disabilities. The caregivers of children with disabilities reported heightened stress levels, and PWDs experienced reduced functional and social well-being. These disparities were compounded by limited preventive care access and high unmet treatment needs, particularly among those with severe disabilities and limited caregiver support. Conclusions: PWDs in Saudi Arabia face marked oral health disparities, with notably higher rates of dental caries and gingivitis, severely impacting their quality of life. The findings underscore the need for targeted oral health policies and community-based interventions to enhance care accessibility, promote preventive measures, and address the unique needs of this vulnerable population.
Related Concept Videos
01:26Assessment of the Mouth
Mouth Inspection
The inspection begins with visually examining the mouth for symmetry, color, and size.
01:21Health Literacy
01:11Oral 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...
01:21Barriers to Effective Communication II
Cultural barriers:
Differences in values, beliefs, religion, knowledge, and tradition can significantly impact communication. Awareness of nonverbal cues is critical, especially when conversing with a patient from a different culture. What appears appropriate in one culture may be inappropriate in another.
Semantic barriers:
As a result of their tendency to use...
01:20Lifestyle Factors and Health
Benefits of Physical Activity
Physical activity, whether through structured exercise or casual activities like walking, biking, or dancing, is a cornerstone of a...
01:27Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-IV: Assessement and Diagnostic Studies
Medical History