Impact of Developmental enamel defects on quality of life in 5‐year‐old children

Abstract

Background Developmental enamel defects (DDE) represent one of the prevalent oral problems in childhood; however, few studies have evaluated its impact on quality of life in the children's own perception. Aim To evaluate the DDE impact on quality of life of 5‐year‐old children. Methods This cross‐sectional observational study assessed 566 children aged 5 years old, in Teresina, Piauí, Brazil, according to their self‐perceptions. Children answered the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory™ Version 4.0 and Oral Health Scale. The dmft index, modified DDE index and Foster and Hamilton criteria were used to diagnose dental caries, DDE and malocclusion, respectively. A single examiner performed the clinical examination. Descriptive analyses and Poisson regression with robust variance were performed. Results The prevalence of DDE was 33.7%. For children's self‐reports, the presence of DDE had a negative association with oral health‐related quality of life (OHRQoL; PR 1.09, 95% CI 1.02‐1.15). Enamel hypoplasia had a negative impact on the physical function (PR 1.05; 95% CI 1.01‐1.10) and oral health (PR 1.06, 95% CI 1.01‐1.11) domains. Diffuse opacity had a negative impact on the social aspect (PR 1.09, 95% CI 1.02‐1.18). Conclusions Enamel defects had a negative impact on OHRQoL according to the self‐reports of the children.

Underdiagnosis of enamel defects in Family Health Centres of Talca city, Chile.

“…The prevalence of enamel defects reported in the present study mirrors previous epidemiological studies undertaken in similar populations. [9][10][11]22 The present findings demonstrated that demarcated opacities were nearly three times more prevalent than diffuses opacities and hypoplasia. These numbers are similar to those obtained in a Poland study of children from primary schools.…”

Can 5‐year‐olds sensibly self‐report the impact of developmental enamel defects on their quality of life?

“…I read with great interest the article by Andrade et al 1 assessing the impact of developmental enamel defects (DDE) on the quality of life (QoL) among 5-year-old children. The burden of dental defects is globally prevalent, and in Europe, it ranges between 6% and 38%.…”

Response to letter to the editor regarding the article: Impact of developmental enamel defects on quality of life in 5‐year‐old children

“…1,7,2,3,4 It is fundamental hearing the voices of children regarding to their health, well-being, and quality of life. 7 He asked about the method of application of PedsQL for children; however, in our study, 8 we followed the method proposed by Varni et al, 1 and tested in Brazil by Bendo et al 4 which recommends that 'Children between 5 and 7 years of age were interviewed by one interviewer'.…”