Periodontitis, risk factors, and their impact on oral health-related quality of life (OHRQOL) among Egyptian Geriatric patients: a multi-center cross-sectional study

AIM: This study investigated the prevalence, risk indicators, and impact of periodontitis on oral health-related quality of life (OHRQOL) among Egyptian geriatric patients. This study aims to provide insights into the broader implications of this disease for quality of life by assessing functional, psychological, and social domains. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 400 Egyptian participants aged 60 years and older recruited from Ain Shams University's outpatient clinics and the Ministry of Health dental research centers. Sociodemographic and behavioral data were collected via structured questionnaires, whereas OHRQOL was evaluated using the OHIP-14 tool. Clinical periodontal assessments adhered to the 2017 World Workshop classification. Logistic regression was applied to identify associations between periodontitis severity, risk indicators, and OHRQOL impacts. RESULTS: Among the participants, 66.5% (N = 266) reported a negative impact on OHRQOL, predominantly due to psychological discomfort, physical pain, and disability. Stages II (40%) and III (36.2%) periodontitis were the most prevalent, with PPD Mean ± SD 4.95 ± 1.38, CAL Mean ± SD 4.21 ± 1.38. The key risk factors for severe periodontitis included being male, being older, being less educated, being a smoker, and having diabetes. The study also revealed that irregular tooth brushing, residence in specific urban locations, and advanced periodontitis stages were significantly associated with poorer OHRQOL. CONCLUSIONS: Periodontitis adversely affects OHRQOL among Egyptian elderly individuals, with the psychological and physical domains being the most affected. These findings underscore the need for targeted public health strategies and personalized interventions to mitigate the burden of periodontal disease in this population.