Oral Health-Related Quality of Life and Associated Factors Following Treatment of Jaw Fractures: A Cross-Sectional Study in Mulago Hospital-Uganda

<title>Abstract</title> <p>Background Oral health–related quality of life (OHRQoL) after surgical management of trauma-related jaw fractures is a major concern, particularly in low- and middle-income countries like Uganda, where road traffic accidents are common. These injuries may result in long-term functional, psychological, and social impairments beyond physical healing. This study therefore aimed at determining the Oral Health Related Quality of Life and associated factors among adults surgically treated for trauma-related jaw fractures at Mulago National Referral Hospital. Methods A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 313 adults who had undergone surgical treatment for trauma-related jaw fractures at Mulago National Referral Hospital. Participants aged ≥ 18 years who provided written informed consent were recruited at their postoperative review visit. Data was collected in two phases: clinic recruitment and a follow-up telephone interview one month later using a structured interviewer-administered questionnaire. Sociodemographic, clinical and behavioural variables were recorded. OHRQoL was assessed using an adapted World Health Organisation Oral Health Basic Survey (Oral Health Questionnaire for Adults), with modification of questions 4 and 12 and inclusion of additional items. The questionnaire was pretested. Responses were scored on a Likert scale, with higher scores indicating poorer OHRQoL. Data was analyzed using Stata 16. Multivariate linear regression identified associated factors (p &lt; 0.05). Results Mean age was 29.8 ± 8.4 years; 91.7% were male. Closed reduction was used in 87.9%, rigid open reduction in 10.5%, and semi-rigid in 1.6%. OHRQoL was moderately affected (mean score 2.4 ± 0.5). Oral function (2.7 ± 1.0) and psychosocial impact (2.6 ± 0.8) were most affected, followed by emotional wellbeing (2.4 ± 0.9), oral discomfort (2.3 ± 0.7), and social functioning (2.3 ± 0.7). Most participants (60.7%) reported worse oral health post-injury, and 60.4% reported pain. Poorer OHRQoL was associated with perceived deterioration (β = 0.21, p &lt; 0.001) and pain (β = 0.15, p = 0.004). Conclusion Patients experience moderate OHRQoL impairment, mainly functional and psychosocial. Post-treatment care should address both dimensions.</p>