| Abstract [eng] |
Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders are a group of mental illnesses that affect thinking, emotions, behavior, and perception of reality. These disorders often make it difficult for individuals to maintain proper oral hygiene, resulting in poorer oral health compared to the general population. This study analyzes the dental condition, oral hygiene habits, and opportunities to improve oral health among individuals with schizophrenia spectrum disorders. Objective: To assess the dental status and oral hygiene habits of patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorders and to develop recommendations for improving their oral health with the goal of enhancing their quality of life. Methods: The study was conducted in 2025 at the Vilnius City Mental Health Center and included 10 adult patients with schizophrenia who were able to understand a questionnaire and attend a dental examination. Participants signed an informed consent form. A questionnaire based on the WHO methodology and adapted by the researcher was used. Dental and oral health were assessed at UAB “Polo klinika” using the Decayed, Missing and Filled Teeth Index (KPI) and Simplified Oral Hygiene Index (OHI-s). Data were entered into the e-sveikata system following GDPR requirements. Statistical analysis was performed using Excel and IBM SPSS 26, applying Shapiro–Wilk, χ², t-test, Mann–Whitney U, and Spearman correlation. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. All necessary approvals and consents were obtained. Results: The study included 10 patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorders: 5 men (50.0 %) and 5 women (50.0 %), with a mean age of 40.9 years (SD ± 12.0). Most had vocational education (60.0 %), 80.0 % lived on social benefits, and 50.0 % reported monthly income of 400–700 €. Smoking was reported by 70.0 %. Dental condition was very poor (KPI = 25.78 ± 6.23), and oral hygiene was poor (OHI-s = 3.5 ± 0.5). 40.0 %. brushed teeth twice daily, 30.0 % once a month, and 10.0 % did not brush at all. In the last 6 months, 50.0 % had visited a dentist. Oral pain or discomfort was reported by 90.0 %, poor dental condition by 60.0 %, smile avoidance by 80.0 %, chewing difficulties by 65.0 %, and speech difficulties by 55.0 %. Significant correlations were found between poor oral health and smile avoidance (ρ = 0.78; p = 0.008), chewing difficulties (ρ = 0.70; p = 0.025), speech discomfort (ρ = 0.75; p = 0.012), lower education (ρ = 0.64), lower income (ρ = –0.66), and lack of a partner (ρ = –0.68; p = 0.031). Conclusions: Patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorders exhibit very poor dental and oral hygiene, marked by dental caries, tooth loss, and heavy plaque. The main causes include infrequent toothbrushing, avoidance of dental visits, low education, limited income, long disease duration, and lack of motivation. Improving oral health in this group requires a comprehensive approach involving education, social skills development, technological tools, and integration of oral care into mental health services. |
