| dc.description.abstract | Background: One factor that affects Quality of Life (QoL) is oral health, which can include dental caries, periodontal disease, and oral hygiene. Previous research has shown that Oral Health-Related Quality of Life (OHRQoL) instruments can be used to identify the effect of oral health on the quality of life. Objective: This study aimed to develop and validate a new instrument (OHIPTL-24) for Timor-Leste, cross-adapted from the 7-dimension Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-14) with the additional of cultural dimension, which added up to eight dimensions of oral health-related quality of life. Methods: The study was done in two stages: an Exploratory stage with qualitative approach followed by Confirmatory Quantitative Analysis. It involved 150 participants: 50 teenagers, 50 adults, and 50 elderly. Results: Preliminary test showed significant validity with a calculated r value > 0.4, indicating the effectiveness of OHIPTL-24 in measuring the quality of life relevant to cultural dimension. The habits and culture of Timorese related to traditional ceremonies, such as betel nut chewing, alcohol consumption, high-sugar diets, sharing utensils, and limited access of dental care have a significant impact on oral health. Statistical analysis in the 35-44 age group showed a significant correlation between dental caries experience, periodontal status, oral hygiene, and quality of life. The study results showed a moderate positive correlation for status of caries experience (p=0.033; r=0.303), periodontal disease (p=0.000; r=0.486), and oral hygiene (p=0.023; r=0.321). Conclusion: In conclusion, OHIPTL-24 is expected to help healthcare providers to identify and measure the impact of oral health on the quality of life in Timor-Leste, emphasizing the need for better dental care awareness and access. Therefore, it is important for the community and government to increase the awareness and access to dental care to improve the quality of life of the Timor-Leste people. | en_US |
