Evaluation of Oral Health-Related Quality of Life Following Dental Rehabilitation under General Anesthesia in Turkish Children with Early Childhood Caries

Background: Early childhood caries (ECC) is one of the most common dental problems, which often require dental rehabilitation with general anesthesia (DRGA). Aim: To assess the short-and long-term effects of DRGA on children and their families' oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) in preschool children, the incidence of complications on the first day, and the factors affecting them and parental satisfaction. Design: A total of 150 children treated for ECC under DRGA were included in the study. OHRQoL was assessed on the day of DRGA, 4 weeks, and 1 year after treatment using the Early Childhood Oral Health Impact Scale (ECOHIS). The incidence of complications and parental satisfaction with DRGA were evaluated. The data were analyzed for statistical significance (p < .05). Results: In total, 134 patients were re-evaluated at the end of the fourth week and 120 at the end of the first year. The average ECOHIS scores before and after DRGA (4 weeks and 1 year) were 18.1 +/- 8.5, 3.1 +/- 3.9, and 5.9 +/- 6.2, respectively. After DRGA, 29.2% of the children reported at least one complication. Ninety-one percent of the parents reported that they were satisfied with DRGA. Conclusion: DRGA has a positive effect on the OHRQoL of Turkish preschool children with ECC and is highly evaluated by their parents.