Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Mandibulectomy, a common consequence of treatment for head and neck malignancies, can significantly impair oral functions and psychological well-being. Oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) is a multidimensional construct evaluating the impact of oral conditions on daily functioning and satisfaction. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This institutional observational study was conducted at the Department of Prosthodontics, Regional Dental College, Guwahati, between June 2023 and April 2025. A total of 40 patients with acquired mandibular defects who met the inclusion criteria were rehabilitated with mandibular guidance prostheses. OHRQoL was assessed using the OHIP-14 questionnaire at baseline, two weeks, and three months post-rehabilitation. Socio-demographic, clinical, and treatment data were recorded and analyzed using IBM SPSS version 20. Statistical significance was evaluated using paired t-tests, ANOVA, and Chi-square tests at a significance level of P < 0.05. RESULTS: The mean OHIP-14 scores showed significant improvement from baseline (35.8 ± 6.6) to two weeks (30.3 ± 6.7) and three months (23.4 ± 6.2) post-rehabilitation (P < 0.001). The most frequently used prosthesis was the mandibular guidance flange prosthesis (50%), followed by the maxillary ramp prosthesis (45%). Age, type of defect, number of remaining teeth, and chemotherapy status significantly influenced OHRQoL outcomes. CONCLUSION: Prosthetic rehabilitation significantly improves the OHRQoL in mandibulectomy patients, with the extent of improvement influenced by multiple clinical and demographic factors. Early intervention, appropriate prosthetic selection, and individualized treatment planning can enhance post-rehabilitation outcomes.