[A study about oral health-related quality of Life among 11-14 years old children in Shanghai municipality].

PURPOSE: To assess oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) among 11-14 years old children in Shanghai municipality and investigate the influential factors, in order to provide theoretical evidence for pointed oral health education and public health strategies formulation.

METHODS

Systematic sampling method was used to extract 11-14 years old children in Shanghai municipality. The decay missing filling tooth (DMFT) and gingival bleeding index (GBI) were examined and recorded. Child oral-health-related quality of life questionnaires (CPQ11-14) was adopted to assess the OHRQoL. Other enquiry included sociodemographic background and oral health-related behaviors, knowledge and attitudes. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 21.0 software package.

RESULTS

This study examined 1050 children of 11-14 years old, among which 955 children (urban 482,suburb 473) were enrolled. The response rate was 91%. The mean CPQ11-14 score was (6.0±5.6). Statistical analysis showed that children with higher DMFT index and bleeding on probing had higher CPQ11-14 average score and poorer oral health related quality of life (P<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Caries and periodontal disease have negative effect on OHRQoL of 11-14 years old children. Efforts are needed to strengthen oral health care, including good oral health education, and focusing on halitosis and oral mucosal diseases in children aged 11-14 years old. Supported by Natural Science Foundation of Shanghai Municipality (12ZR1446100).