Effect of Oral-Related Quality of Life and Sexual Function in Dentally Compromised Women: A Prospective Cohort Study

Background: Oral health and edentulism significantly impact quality of life (QoL). However, the relationship between oral health-related quality of life (OHQoL) and sexual function remains unclear. Aim: To assess OHQoL and the prevalence of sexual dysfunction (SD) in women before and after oral rehabilitation. Methods: The study involved 102 women (aged 40-70 years) scheduled for prosthodontic treatment with incomplete natural dentition. Assessments were conducted using the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-14) and Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) questionnaires at three timepoints: T0 (before treatment), T1 (1 month after), and T2 (3 months after prosthodontic treatment). Statistical analyses included Kruskal-Wallis, Friedman tests, and Spearman's rank correlation test (P < 0.05). Results: Significant differences were observed in total FSFI scores at T0 (18.1 +/- 3.2), T1 (19.2 +/- 3.4), and T2 (21.6 +/- 3.7) (P < 0.001). The prevalence of SD was 89.6% at T0, 84.2% at T1, and 79.3% at T2. Scores in all FSFI domains improved significantly post-treatment (P < 0.001). Mean OHIP scores were 30.6 +/- 2.7 at T0, 17.7 +/- 4.1 at T1, and 10.2 +/- 2.8 at T2 (P < 0.001). Scores in all OHIP-14 domains decreased significantly after dental treatment, reflecting improved OHQoL. Significant correlations were found between total OHIP-14 and FSFI scores at T0 (r = -0.31, P = 0.01), T1 (r = -0.51, P = 0.021), and T2 (r = -0.80, P < 0.001). Conclusion: OHQoL is associated with sexual function in women. Following dental treatment and oral rehabilitation, FSFI scores increased, and the prevalence of SD decreased.