ABSTRACT
PURPOSE: The aim of the study was to collect information about the oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) after combined orthodontic and maxillofacial surgical treatment as well as its influence on health-related quality of life (HRQoL). MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study includes data from a total of 130 subjects, 65 of whom (21 male, 44 female, mean age at baseline: 24 years, mean age at the time of surgery: 26 years) were compared with control subjects matched on the basis of gender and age. The set of questionnaires used consisted of a questionnaire advanced by the authors including 35 general and treatment-specific questions, and the German version of the validated "Orthognathic Quality of Life Questionnaire" (OQLQ) to analyze the specific OHRQoL, and the SF-36 to measure HRQoL. RESULTS: The main reason for treatment was most often a combination of esthetic and functional complaints. In most cases, the treatment results met the expectations of subjects well or very well, particularly in the areas of aesthetics and masticatory function. Postoperative numbness or paresthesia were present in 59% of patients, especially in the chin and lower lip areas. In all, 20% of subjects considered the temporary restriction of mouth opening as very bothersome. A decrease in HRQoL was noted as compared with the control group in the subscales of "role physical" (p < 0.001), "general health" (p = 0.023), and "role emotional" (p = 0.007). No differences were found in the "physical functioning," "bodily pain," "vitality," "social functioning," and "mental health" subscales. The specific OHRQoL resulted in statistically significant limitations in the patient group for all areas examined. The "oral function" (p < 0.001), "dentofacial aesthetics" (p = 0.005), "social aspects" (p = 0.002), and "awareness of dentofacial aesthetics" (p = 0.004) values were significantly decreased. CONCLUSIONS: Overall, patients expressed a high level of satisfaction and approval with regard to the combined orthodontic and maxillofacial surgical treatment. However, even after combined orthodontic and maxillofacial surgical treatment of malocclusion patients, it is possible to detect smaller limitations with regard to the specific OHRQoL, which may have a negative impact on HRQoL. Based on the results, a participatory decision-making process focusing on the individual therapy-related expectations, desires, and psychological factors of the patient concerning the improvements effected by the treatment appears to be advisable.
