The Impact Of Malocclusion On Quality Of Life And Life Satisfaction

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate whether the type of malocclusion affects the perception of quality and satisfaction with people's lives. Material and Methods: Three questionnaires were applied: the first one assessed the social and economic factors and the diagnosis of malocclusion through Angle´s classification, the second was the OHIP-14, and the third was the Satisfaction With Life Scale (SWLS). Results: This study involved 444 patients aged 18 to 72 years. According to the classification of malocclusion 48.65% was Class I, 22.75% was Class II division 1, 12.16% was Class II division 2 and Class III 16.44%. The malocclusion did not have negative impact on the level of satisfaction with life, but in all dimensions analyzed by OHIP-14, malocclusion had negative impact on quality of life and was statistically significant. The most severe malocclusions such as Class II and Class III represent a more negative impact when compared to Class I malocclusion. Moreover, for the dimensions assessed by the OHIP-14, physical pain and psychological discomfort were those who showed a greater negative impact on quality of life. Conclusions: Malocclusions do not interfere with the judgment of the level of satisfaction with life, but they produce a negative impact on quality of life.