Impacto de la pérdida dentaria parcial en la calidad de vida oral de pacientes adultos de la UCSG período B-2025.

Abstract

Introduction: Partial tooth loss is the absence of one or more permanent teeth, usually caused by periodontal disease, dental caries, or trauma, which compromises masticatory function, esthetics, and the psychological well-being of adults. Objective: To analyze the impact of partial tooth loss on oral health–related quality of life in adult patients attending the UCSG Dental Clinic. Method: An observational, quantitative, prospective, and cross-sectional study was conducted to analyze data from 30 patients treated at the UCSG clinic (B-2025), using an intraoral examination for counting missing teeth, determining the location of tooth loss, periodontal probing, assessment of bilaterality, and application of the OHIP-14 questionnaire to evaluate quality of life. Results: Most patients were women (73%), the mean age was 50 years (SD = 13), and the mean OHIP-14 score was 29.5, indicating a moderate impact on oral health–related quality of life, with greater impairment in the psychological discomfort dimension. A positive, moderate correlation was observed between the number of missing teeth and the OHIP-14 score (p < 0.05). The number of missing teeth ranged from 3 to 20. The location of tooth loss and periodontal status were significantly associated with quality of life (p < 0.05). Patients using removable partial dentures in the upper arch presented higher OHIP-14 scores. Conclusions: Partially edentulous adults treated at the UCSG Dental Clinic (B-2025) showed a moderate to severe impact on oral health–related quality of life.