Oral health-related quality of life, needs, and barriers among drug addicts referred to Shahid Beheshti psychiatric hospital in Kerman, Iran

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Endodontology Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran

2 Oral and Dental Diseases Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran

3 Leishmaniasis Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran

4 Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran

5 Department of Operative Dentistry, Faculty of Dentistry, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran

6 Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti Hospital, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran

7 Neuroscience Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran

Abstract

Background: Drug addiction is one of the most challenging and complex health issues, with direct adverse consequences, including mental disorders, depression, and various physical problems. It also impacts oral and dental health. The objective of this study was to investigate the impact of oral health on the quality of life of individuals with substance use disorders seeking maintenance methadone therapy (MMT) at MMT centers in Kerman City in 2024.
Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at the Shahid Beheshti Psychiatric Hospital and MMT centers in Kerman City in 2024. Data were collected from 203 individuals with a history of substance use disorder using a structured questionnaire consisting of three sections: demographic and contextual information, the Persian version of the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-14), and an assessment of health service needs and barriers to oral health promotion among individuals with addiction.
Results: The mean OHIP-14 score was 27.9, indicating a significant negative impact of poor oral health on daily life, particularly in the psychological and physical domains. The most prevalent barriers to accessing dental care among individuals with addiction were the cost of services (70%) and a lack of perceived need for care (35%). The highest reported need was for treatment of tooth decay (72%).
Conclusion: The average OHIP-14 score obtained in this study indicates a substantially poor oral health status among the participants. Therefore, it is imperative to enhance oral and dental health services for individuals with addiction, as well as to implement policies that promote oral and dental health within this population, to improve their oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL).

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Main Subjects

References

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Journal of Oral Health and Oral Epidemiology
Volume 15
Pages 1-9

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History

  • Receive Date: 19 May 2025
  • Revise Date: 31 August 2025
  • Accept Date: 31 January 2026

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