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

Abstract

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.