Assessment of Relationship between Xerostomia and Oral-Health-Related Quality of Life in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis

Abstract

Objective

To determine the relationship between xerostomia and Oral-Health Related Quality of Life in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

Materials and Methods

Two hundred patients with rheumatoid arthritis were assessed using Fox and OHIP-14 questionnaires concerning xerostomia and Oral-Health Related Quality of Life respectively. The sum of decayed, missing and filled teeth (DMFT) was determined via an intra-oral exam. In addition, intergroup comparisons were evaluated using T-test, Chi-square, regression and Tukey analysis.

Results

Amongst rheumatoid arthritis patients, 51% had been afflicted with xerostomia. We found a statistically significant relationship between xerostomia and Oral-Health Related Quality of Life (p-value=0.004), as xerostomia cases have significantly worse Oral-Health Related Quality of Life. Also, there was a statistically significant association between Oral-Health Related Quality of Life and gender as well as DMFT.

Conclusion

Because there seem to be a high prevalence of xerostomia in patients with rheumatoid arthritis, screening in such population is highly recommended. therefore, educational programs and/or workshops should be encouraged among health care providers to prevent worsening of Oral-Health Related Quality of Life.

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