Mapping evidence on oral health-related quality of life in endodontics: A scoping review

This scoping review aimed to map the existing literature on OHRQoL in endodontics by identifying the types of treatments investigated, measurement instruments used, and assessment time points, as well as to highlight current knowledge gaps and directions for future research.

Three electronic databases (MEDLINE, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Scopus) were searched until February 22, 2025.

A total of 3961 records were identified; 132 were screened and assessed for eligibility, and 67 articles were included. The findings showed that (1) an increasing incorporation of patient-reported outcomes was observed, particularly in non-surgical root canal treatment; (2) the Oral Health Impact Profile-14 (OHIP-14) was the most frequently used OHRQoL instrument; (3) substantial heterogeneity was found in outcome measures and assessment time points; and (4) the lack of methodological consistency limits comparability across studies and underscores a need for standardised assessment frameworks.

This scoping review highlights growing use of OHRQoL as a patient-reported outcome in endodontic research. However, substantial methodological heterogeneity limits cross-study comparability, underscoring the need for standardised outcome measures and follow-up protocols to strengthen patient-centred evidence in endodontics.

Patient-reported outcomes are increasingly recognized as essential indicators of treatment success in endodontics. This review identifies significant variability in OHRQoL assessment methods, which hinders evidence synthesis and clinical applicability. The development of standardized, consensus-based outcome measures is crucial to strengthen patient-centred evidence and improve the translation of research findings into everyday endodontic care.