Longitudinal Study on Dental Status, Caries Risk Assessment, and Oral Health-Related Quality of Life in 3-6-Year-Old Children Receiving Nitrous Oxide Inhalational Sedation

Abstract

Introduction Dental caries prevention in early childhood is crucial, necessitating timely assessments by dental professionals and parents. The oral health of children during their early years can significantly impact both the children themselves and their parents' quality of life. This study seeks to assess the changes in oral health-related quality of life after treatment under nitrous oxide sedation in anxious preschool children, for whom treatment otherwise is quite difficult chairside. Aim The aim of this study is to assess the association between dental caries status, risk assessment, and oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) in 3-6-year-old children, before and after undergoing treatment under nitrous oxide inhalation sedation. Materials and methods Eighty children were assessed for caries risk and dental status using the caries risk assessment for treatment (CRAFT) tool. Nitrous oxide sedation was employed for dental treatment, and assessments were conducted pre-treatment and post-treatment. Statistical analyses performed were paired t-tests, correlation analyses, and Chi-Square tests. Results The study revealed a mean age of 4.033 ± 0.96, with a balanced gender distribution (47.5% boys, 52.5% girls). Post-treatment, significant negative correlations were observed between OHRQoL and treatment outcomes, emphasizing improved oral health-related quality of life. Associations were found between OHRQoL, pufa index, and caries risk post-treatment. Conclusion The current research suggests that treatment done under nitrous oxide sedation could improve the OHRQoL in preschool children. Integrating risk assessment and OHRQoL enhances understanding, facilitating targeted prevention and treatment strategies. Addressing untreated dental caries is imperative for optimizing the overall well-being of children in this age group.