Dentofacial deformity and quality of life: a case control study

Resumo

Dentofacial deformity (DFD) may be defined as facial and dental disproportions great enough to affect significantly the individual’s quality of life (QoL). Objective: This study aimed to verify and compare the impacts of and differences in QoL in individuals with and without DFD. Material and methods: The impact of DFD on QoL was evaluated through the following questionnaires: Short Form Health Survey (SF36), a generic Oral Health Related Quality of Life (OHRQoL) questionnaire (Oral Health Impact Profile Questionnaire – OHIP-49), a condition-specific questionnaire for DFD (Orthognathic Quality of Life Questionnaire – OQLQ) and a single question answered by Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). Results: Greater and negative impacts on QoL were observed in patients with DFD in all domains of OQLQ and OHIP; and in two domains of SF36: emotional well-being and social functioning. Conclusion: DFD greatly and negatively impacted on QoL of individuals with DFD greater mainly evidenced through general and specific OHRQoL questionnaires.