Occurrence of Malocclusion and Its Relationship with Happiness and Oral Health-Related Quality of Life Among 12-Year-Old Students in Government Schools of Bangalore South- A Cross‐Sectional Analysis

Abstract

Introduction: Optimal occlusion plays a vital role in ensuring efficient chewing, clear speech, and balanced facial aesthetics. Malocclusion, a widespread dental condition, is increasingly recognized as a public health issue due to its significant impact on oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL). However, its relationship with children’s overall well-being remains underexplored. This study aims to assess the prevalence of malocclusion and examine its association with OHRQoL and happiness among 12-year-old students attending government schools in Bangalore South. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted among 1,059 twelve-year-old students enrolled in government schools across Bangalore South. Clinical assessments were performed using the Dental Aesthetic Index (DAI) to evaluate malocclusion. Self-administered, validated questionnaires were used to measure oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) and perceived happiness. Statistical analyses were applied to determine the prevalence of malocclusion and explore its associations with OHRQoL and happiness levels via SPSS. Results: Malocclusion prevalence was 50.4%, with common concerns including bad breath (36.7%), tooth pain (23.8%), and bleeding gums (50%). Functional limitations affected chewing (31.4%), speech clarity (21.1%), and breathing (18.7%). Emotional distress was evident, with 60.5% feeling upset and 39.5% experiencing shyness. Social consequences included school absenteeism (18.4%), peer teasing (23.7%), and limited participation in activities (29.2%). The happiness scale indicated that 57.7% reported lower overall happiness and 40.3% felt less happy than their peers. Conclusion: Malocclusion significantly compromises OHRQoL and psychological well-being, leading to diminished happiness. The high prevalence underscores the need for early intervention and school-based dental health programs to enhance children’s quality of life.