Influence of wedged cervical lesions and dentine hypersensitivity on quality of life

Abstract

Aim. To study the influence of wedged cervical lesions and dentin hypersensitivity on quality of life. Methods. 118 patients with wedged cervical lesions and dentin hypersensitivity were examined. The quality of life was assessed using the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-14) 14-item questionnaire focusing on seven dimensions of impact (functional limitation, pain, psychological discomfort, physical disability, psychological disability, social disability and handicap). Treatment in patients of the first group (57 patients) included dentin hypersensitivity relief using the «Nanoflyuor» fluoride varnish and dental restoration in patients with medium and promoted stages of wedged cervical lesions. Patients of the control group were treated with «Gluftored» fluoride liquid, dental restoration was performed in patients with medium and promoted stages of wedged cervical lesions. Results. Patients with superficial wedged cervical lesions had lower OHIP-14 scores, indicating better quality of life, with promoted wedged cervical lesions - higher OHIP-14 scores. OHIP-14 scores were higher in patients aged 31-40 and 41-50 years, and lower in patients aged 18-30 years and over 51 years. After treatment of promoted wedged cervical lesions OHIP-14 scores were better in the treatment group compared to the control group with statistically significant difference in functional limitation and physical disability dimensions scores, as well as in combined OHIP-14 score. In patients with medium-stage wedged cervical lesions there was a relevant difference in functional limitation, pain and psychological disability scores. There were no significant differences between the groups in patients with superficial wedged cervical lesions. Conclusion. Dentin hypersensitivity and bad dental appearance influence the patients’ comfort decreasing their quality of life, with minimal influence in patients with superficial wedged cervical lesions and maximal influence in patients with promoted wedged cervical lesions.