Oral health-related quality of life in patients with osteogenesis imperfecta in Taiwan.

Background/purpose: Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) is a rare genetic disorder that affects bone and dental structures, often reducing oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL). Maintaining OHRQoL in individuals with OI depends greatly on their dental conditions. Thus, this study identified key dental factors associated with OHRQoL in this population. Materials and methods: Thirty-seven patients with OI participated in this cross-sectional study. Data were collected using structured questionnaires on sociodemographic characteristics, oral habits, self-perceived oral health, and OHRQoL. Clinical examinations were performed to evaluate dental status. Associations between dental variables and OHRQoL were analyzed using the Mann-Whitney U test and Kruskal-Wallis test. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to identify the significant predictors of poor OHRQoL. Results: Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that the number of posterior functional tooth units (P-FTUs) was the only significant dental predictor of OHRQoL. A higher P-FTU count was significantly associated with better OHRQoL scores. Conclusion: An adequate number of P-FTUs is essential for maintaining OHRQoL in patients with OI. In addition to retaining natural teeth or fixed prostheses, ensuring proper distribution and functional occlusion is critical. Clinicians should prioritize treatment strategies that preserve posterior occlusion and provide prosthetic rehabilitation when required to support optimal oral function and quality of life.