Analytical study of signs and symptoms of TMD, fluorosis and caries in different age groups to validate and to find reliability of oral health-related quality of life

Aim and objective: To evaluate the effect of dental caries, fluorosis and temporo-mandibular joint disorders on quality of life. Material and methodology: Total sample size was categorized into three groups: Group A-Participants 3-10 y: for assessment of fluorosis and dental caries. Group B-Participants of age 11-18 y: for assessment of fluorosis and dental caries. Group C-Participants of age 18 y and above for assessment of TMD, fluorosis and dental caries. These age groups were studied for the validity and reliability of oral health related quality of life in different oral and dental conditions as per their respective age groups. Simplified Oral Hygiene Index (OHI-S) was used to assess the oral cavity and hygiene in first group. For fluorosis assessment, TSIF Score is used in the study. Results: 4.5% patients in this study have minor scores for dental caries. 19% participants out of these were observed to have fair score of OHI-S (i.e. 1.3 to 3.0). 6% participants were found with TSIF score 3 fluorosis in Group A. 30% participants had TSIF score of 1 or greater and 13% have scores of 2 or greater while 70% patients in Group B have TSIF score more than 0. TMD was assessed in Group C and in this study participated patients were 33 males and 17 females. The test-retest reliability was satisfactory in the Group C samples. Conclusion: Signs and symptoms of TMD, fluorosis and caries in different age groups helped to validate and to find reliability of OHRQoL.