To describe oral hygiene habits in MS and NMOSD patients from Argentina and evaluate the oral health-related quality of life, and its possible association with IST and other relevant clinical factors. 

Multiple sclerosis (MS) and  neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) are inflammatory diseases of the central nervous system. Most MS and NMOSD patients are on immunosuppressive treatment (IST), leading to an increased risk of infections, including those of odontogenic origin. There is scarce evidence on oral health-related quality of life in these patients.

A cross-sectional study was conducted using an Oral Health Impact Profile test (OHIP-14) in 202 MS, 36 NMOSD patients, and 167 controls (HC; non-MS, non-NMOSD and without any IST). We retrospectively reviewed the medical records, and demographic, clinical/paraclinical data and treatments were evaluated. Higher OHIP-14 scores are related to a poorer state of oral health. 

A total of 405 individuals were included. NMOSD patients had a significantly worse performance in functional limitation and handicap domains of the OHIP-14 score compared with MS and HC. HC scored significantly higher in psychological discomfort than MS. No differences in the frequency of dental hygiene were found between groups. MS and NMOSD patients had worse subjective perception of their oral health and fewer odontological visits than HC within the last year. MS patients on active disease modifying treatment were independently associated with higher total OHIP-14 score (β 5.90, 95%CI 1.96-9.84, p=0.003) in our linear regression model. 

This study showed that MS and NMOSD patients may be vulnerable regarding their oral health. Using DMT in MS patients was a predictor of poor state of oral health. Patient-reported OHIP-14 scores provide comprehensive additional information in clinical practice.