Comparing Oral Health Related Quality of Life Between Patients with Thyroid Disorders and Healthy Individuals

Thyroid gland disorders are the second most common disorders of the endocrine system which can affect oral health and patients' health-related quality of life. The aim of this study was to evaluate the oral health-related quality of life (OHRQOL) in patients with thyroid disorders.

In this case-control study, 43 patients and 43 healthy people were asked questions about demographic information, systemic conflicts, alcohol consumption, oral dryness, OHRQOL, years of illness, and medication (in case group). Then, patients were clinically evaluated and oral health indicators such as gingival index, plaque index, bleeding from gingival salicylate, and DMFT were assessed on Ramford teeth. Unstimulated salivary samples were taken in both groups and weight measurement was performed. Data analysis was performed in SPSS V24 applying independent T-test and Mann-Whitney U test.

Significant differences were found between the two groups in quality of life related to oral health ADD-OHIP-14 (P=0.015) and unstimulated saliva flow rate, GI, SBI, and DMFT (P<0.05). Among quantitative variables, only DMFT in case group was found to have a significant positive correlation with OHRQOL (r=0.318, P=0.038).

Lower quality of life linked to oral health in patients with thyroid disorders requires more attention and follow-up programs in order to solve their periodontal and dental problems.