Relation Between Consequences of Untreated Dental Caries (Pufa Index) and Oral Health Related Quality of Life in 4 to 6 Years Old Children Publisher



Amrollahi N ; Ziaee S ; Ghasemi S
Source: Journal of Iranian Medical Council Published:2026

Abstract

Background: Caries is one of the most common childhood diseases. PUFA/pufa index, as a consequence of untreated caries (describes as pulp involvement, ulcers, fistulas and abscesses) affect oral functions and social interactions of children and reduce their Oral Health-Related Quality of Life (OHRQoL). The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between the pufa index and OHRQoL in children aged 4 to 6 years. Methods: This descriptive-analytical, cross-sectional study was conducted on 200 children referred to the School of Dentistry and Dental Clinics of Isfahan University of Medical Sciences. The children were examined, and their parents completed an OHRQoL questionnaire. The examination was conducted by a practitioner. The data were then analyzed using SPSS 26 software, including mean and standard deviation, Spearman correlation coefficient, and T-Test. The significance level was set at <0.05. Results: 200 children consisting of 95 boys (47.5%) and 105 girls (52.5%) were participated in this study. The mean score of OHRQoL was 59.77±9.66. There was a significant and inverse relation between p and pufa score with OHRQoL (p<0.001). u, f, and a indices had a negative relation with OHRQoL (p<0/001). Conclusion: Based on the findings of this study, the consequences of untreated caries, including caries with pulp involvement, ulcers, fistulas and abscesses, have a significant and negative impact on children, reducing OHRQoL. © 2026, Journal of Iranian Medical Council.