Associations between oral health-related quality of life and emotional statuses in children and preadolescents

Oral Diseases (2012) 18, 639647 Objectives: To evaluate the associations between oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) and emotional statuses in children and preadolescents. Methods: One hundred and forty-five Brazilian students (814 years) were clinically examined for caries, gingivitis, fluorosis, malocclusions, and temporomandibular disorders (TMD). OHRQoL was measured using two global ratings of oral health (OH) and overall well-being (OWB). The Revised Childrens Manifest Anxiety Scale (R-CMAS) and Childrens Depression Inventory (CDI) were used to assess anxiety and depression, respectively. SalivCezannea was collected 30 min after waking and at night to determine the diurnal decline in salivary cortisol (DDSC). The results were analyzed using non-paired t test/one-way ANOVA, Pearsons correlation test, and multiple linear regression analyses. Results: 1114-year-old participants had higher CDI scores (P < 0.01) and DDSC concentrations (P < 0.001). Participants with fewer caries and without gingivitis had higher DDSC concentrations (P < 0.05). TMD patients had higher DDSC concentrations and OWB ratings (P < 0.001). Girls had higher Revised Childrens Manifest Anxiety Scale (RCMAS) scores (P < 0.01). There was positive correlation between RCMAS and CDI scores and OWB ratings (P < 0.05). The OH model retained age (beta =0.312; P < 0.001) and the OWB model retained TMD (beta = 0.271; P < 0.001) and CDI scores (beta=0.175; P < 0.05). Conclusions: Children and preadolescents with poor emotional well-being are more sensitive to the impacts of OH and its effects on OWB.