Changes in life quality following third molar surgery - The immediate postoperative period

Objectives: This study describes patients' perceptions of changes in oral health related quality of life (OHQOL) in the early postoperative period following third molar surgery. Methods: One hundred patients were enrolled in a prospective cohort study of the surgical removal of lower third molars under local anaesthetic. Two specific oral health related quality of life measures, OHIP-14 and OHQoLUK© were administered to the study group prior to surgery. Standardized surgical and analgesic protocols were followed. Patients kept a diary of changes in life quality each postoperative day (POD) for 7 days, completing both OHIP-14 and OHQoLUK© daily. Results: Both oral health related quality of life measures identified a significant deterioration in quality of life on POD1 (P0.05). Deterioration in life quality over the study period was associated with postoperative clinical findings (P