Health and Quality of Life of Individuals with Dental Conditions during COVID-19 Lockdown in Jordan.

Abstract

To assess the level of health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and its predictors among individuals with dental conditions requiring treatment during the COVID-19 pandemic in Jordan, and to highlight COVID-19 impacts on these individuals' mental health and dental care. A cross-sectional online-based survey was conducted. The study questionnaire was composed of items related to stress during COVID-19. Descriptive analyses were used to describe the study's main outcome measures, and multiple variable regression analysis was conducted to identify the quality of life predictors. Participants' HRQoL mean scores as measured by SF-12 were 69.5 (± 19.3) for the physical component and 58.9 (± 21.1) for the mental component. Mean scores for depression, anxiety, and stress measured by DASS21 were 10.1, 7.8, and 11.7, respectively. The regression model showed depression (β = -0.76 [95%CI -0.92 to -0.59], p < 0.001), stress (β = -1.74 [95%CI -2.53 to -0.94], p < 0.001), and oral HRQoL (β = -1.25 [95%CI -1.95 to -0.55], p = 0.001) as statistically significant negative predictors for HRQoL. Finally, family income was identified as positive significant predictor for HRQoL (β = 2.51 [95%CI 0.06 to 4.95], p = 0.045). This study found that patients with dental issues had a low quality of life and a high level of mental health symptoms during COVID-19 in Jordan. Healthcare policymakers should consider the continuation of dental services when planning for similar emergencies in the future, particularly if accompanied by lockdowns.