Effects of malocclusion and orthodontic treatment on quality of life among orthodontic patients with craniofacial disorder compared to healthy controls : A cross-sectional study.

PURPOSE: Craniofacial disorders (CD) affect the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP). Therefore, this study evaluates the OHIP in orthodontic patients with cleft lip and/or palate or Robin sequence compared to healthy controls (C).

METHODS

A prospective, cross-sectional study was conducted. Oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) was assessed using the OHIP-14 questionnaire, with responses categorized into functional and psychological well-being items. In addition, the study considered the influence of crossbite, orthodontic appliance type, oral hygiene, and speech therapy. A high OHIP score represents a good quality of life. The Mann-Whitney test was used for nonparametric quantitative variables; statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.

RESULTS

The study included 119 participants (ages 7-21 years; 61 male, 58 female), divided into a CD group consisting of patients with cleft lip and/or palate or Robin sequence (n = 42) and a control group (C; n = 77; mean age 13.5 ± 5.2 and 14.3 ± 3.3 years, respectively). Both groups showed comparable OHIP-14 scores. The CD group reported significantly higher satisfaction regarding nutritional intake (p = 0.03), while the social and psychological dimensions were reduced (p = 0.04). Factors like crossbite, orthodontic appliance and speech therapy did not have a significant impact on OHIP. CD patients with good oral hygiene showed significantly superior self-reported psychological OHIP (p = 0.04).

CONCLUSION

Patients with cleft lip and/or palate or with Robin sequence exhibited OHIP scores comparable to healthy individuals despite their underlying condition. Early guidance on dental care and tooth-friendly nutrition has the potential to improve OHRQoL. Additionally, providing supplemental psychological support during orthodontic treatment is advisable.