Oral Health–Related Quality of Life Following Complete Denture Rehabilitation in Diabetic Edentulous Patients: A 6-Month Prospective Study

Abstract

Objective: Edentulism and diabetes mellitus (DM) are associated with impaired oral function and diminished quality of life. Complete denture rehabilitation plays a pivotal role in the restoration of mastication, comfort, and self-confidence. This study aimed to examine changes in oral health–related quality of life (OHRQoL) after complete denture insertion in diabetic edentulous patients using the OHIP-14 and Geriatric Oral Health Assessment Index (GOHAI) questionnaires. Materials and Methods: This prospective, longitudinal observational study included 25 completely edentulous diabetic patients. Their OHRQoL was evaluated at baseline and at 1, 2, and 6 months postdenture insertion using validated questionnaires, namely, OHIP-14 and GOHAI. Data was analyzed using the Friedman test, and effect sizes were calculated to measure the extent of improvement. Results: Both OHIP-14 and GOHAI showed significant score reductions across all domains (p < 0.001). The mean total OHIP-14 score decreased from 29 at baseline to 4.84 after 6 months, whereas the mean total GOHAI score decreased from 28 to 3.88, respectively. The greatest improvements were observed in psychological disability (effect size: 0.83), physical function (0.88), and pain/discomfort (0.89). Conclusion: Complete denture rehabilitation markedly improved oral function and psychosocial well-being in diabetic edentulous patients, with the most pronounced improvements observed within the first 2 months and sustained benefits up to 6 months. These results highlight the role of dentures in restoring comfort, confidence, and quality of life.

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