Perception about Oral Problems and the Impact on Daily Activities

Background: Oral conditions are known to affect various aspects of quality of life. Oral health status influences self esteem, self emage, and feelings of social well-being. It has been determined that the oral impact on quality of life can be important for both the individual and society. The perceived oral health reflect specific individual subjective perspectives. Someone's perception on quality of life influenced by age, gender, social class, and cultural background. Objectives: The aim of this qualitative study was to identify information about public's perceptions of oral health problems and the impact in daily activities. Methods: Indepth- interviews and FGD were carried out with 15 informans. The interviews was foccusing on oral problems (dental decay, tooth loss, dental calculus, malodor, malocclusion) and the impacts of the dental problems on daily activities. Data analysis done by using content analysis, triangulation source and triangulation of method. Results: Most of informans reported dental decay, dental calculus, tooth loss, malodor, malocclusion and a pattern of episodic/emergency dental visits to treat dental problems. They believed that healthy teeth were very important for daily activities, especially for performance and chewing. Dental calculus, oral malodor and malocclusion influenced performance and self confidence. Tooth loss could affect chewing and intake of diet. Conclusions: dental calculus and oral malodor are most influences on daily activities, especially in social contact. Further research is needed to measure the impact of oral health on quality of life, especially for people in Jakarta.