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Objectives: To examine if tooth loss or treatment with different prosthetic replacements are associated with oral health-related or health-related quality of life (OHRQoL or HRQoL) among persons with dependency and functional limitations. Material and Methods: Comparisons between results of questionnaires and clinical data (number of teeth, Eichner index, presence, type, and condition of prosthetic replacements) from a population of 180 individuals with dependency and functional limitations sampled from the register of increased financial support in Norrbotten County, Sweden. Results: The associations between clinical variables and the questionnaire responses were weak overall, e.g. Spearman's rho was 0.162 (p ¼ .033) for correlation between number of teeth and GOHAI, 0.094 (p ¼ .249) for number of teeth and OHIP, À0.070 (p ¼ .356) for complete dentures and GOHAI, and À0.108 (p ¼ .185) for complete dentures and OHIP. Conclusions: The weak associations between clinical variables and questionnaire results in the present study suggest that good results on measured QoL do not necessarily indicate good oral health. As we cannot expect this specific population to report oral disorders by themselves, regular checkups are necessary.

Normalization was the motivation for implant treatment. Edentulousness had enhanced the feeling of being different and treatment with dental implants was important for well-being. The experience of the treatment process was linked to circumstances of life. Information about procedure, alternative prosthetic constructions and hygiene routines was crucial to the experience and the outcome of the treatment.