Abstract

Objectives The aims of this study were to establish normative age-gender values for the UK oral health related quality of life measure (OHQoL-UK©) in Britain and to provide a local reference for its interpretation. In addition, to identify key factors associated with oral health related quality of life in the UK.

Materials and methods A national survey conducted with the assistance of the Office for National Statistics involving a random probability sample of 2,718 households. Participants were interviewed about their oral health status. The impact of oral health on quality of life was measured using the 16 item OHQoL-UK measure.

Results The response rate was 68% (1,838/2,718). The majority (75%, 1,378/1,838) perceived their oral health as affecting their life quality and did so across a wide range of domains. Age-gender norm values are presented. Variations in OHQoL-UK scores were apparent in relation to socio-demographics: age (P < 0.05), social class (P < 0.01), and self-reported oral health status: number of teeth possessed (P < 0.01).

Conclusions The impact of oral health on the life quality of Britons was substantial, in both positive and negative ways and associated with socio-demographic and oral health (self-reported) factors. National norm values presented should provide a reference source for meaningful interpretation of similar data and local studies.

1. Associate Professor, Periodontology and Public Health, Faculty of Dentistry, Prince Philip Dental Hospital, University of Hong Kong, Hospital Road, Hong Kong
2. Professor and Head, WHO Collaborating Centre for disability, culture and oral health. National Centre for Transcultural Oral Health, Eastman Dental Institute for Oral Health Care Sciences, University College London

Correspondence to: C McGrath¹ Associate Professor, Periodontology and Public Health, Faculty of Dentistry, Prince Philip Dental Hospital, University of Hong Kong, Hospital Road, Hong Kong
e-mail: McgrathC@hkucc.hku.hk