Oral health-related quality of life in children: Conceptual issues

Abstract

Oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) instruments have being widely used in oral health studies. However, most OHRQoL measures are designed to assess the adult population, mainly due to the difficulties for developing such measures for children and their validation. The aim of this review was to describe the impact of oral health on children’s quality of life and its importance for this specific age group. The use of indicators of OHRQoL in children is necessary since they are based on self-perception and oral health impact, which is essential for planning of actions for health promotion considering biological and psychosocial aspects. It is also suggested the need of studies using quali-quantitative methods as an alternative approach to the use of OHRQoL instruments in children.\nKey words: Oral health; child health; quality of life