Abstract
Introduction Early childhood caries (ECC) in Thai preschoolers remains prevalent, even with
continuous intervention. The impacts of ECC have been assessed only symptom and function aspect. This
is the first study on the oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) in a representative population of Thai
preschoolers and their families measured by Thai version of The Early Childhood Oral Health Impact Scale
(Th-ECOHIS). 2) Objectives To assess OHRQoL of Thai preschool children measured by Th-ECOHIS. 3)
Methodology OHRQoL was measured by proxy report of parents/caregivers of 3-5-year-old children
around Thailand using self-administered Th-ECOHIS developed from an interview version. ECOHIS
questions comprised child and family impact sections, frequency of negative impacts which were converted
to scores. Children’s dental status was examined. 4) Result and Discussion 1,053 childrenparents/caregivers dyads participated. 52.90% of parents/caregivers reported a negative impact on
OHRQoL for at least one item (ECOHIS > 0). The most pronounced impacts were the child’s pain and
discomfort. Dentinal caries, caries exposed pulp, tooth extraction and filling have negative impact on
children and family OHRQoL. 5) Conclusions Around half of Thai preschool age children received adverse
impact on quality of life from poor oral health problem including progressive dental caries and dental
treatment.
