Xerostomia and Oral Health–Related Quality of Life in Chilean Older Adults Living in Long‐Term Care Facilities

BACKGROUND: Xerostomia, or the subjective sensation of dry mouth, is highly prevalent among older adults, particularly those living in long-term care facilities (LTCFs). This condition can impair essential oral functions such as chewing, swallowing and speaking, and has been consistently associated with reduced oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL). Despite its clinical relevance, no previous studies have evaluated the impact of xerostomia on OHRQoL in Chilean older adults living in LTCFs-a population characterized by high levels of frailty, polypharmacy and poor oral health. OBJECTIVE: To describe the association between xerostomia and oral health-related quality of life among older adults living in LTCFs in Chile. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional study in 11 LTCFs in Santiago, Chile, including 102 adults aged 60 and over. Xerostomia was assessed using the Spanish version of the Xerostomia Inventory (XI) and OHRQoL was measured using the validated OHIP-14Sp questionnaire. Clinical oral health status was evaluated following WHO criteria, including DMFT index, prosthesis use and occlusal support (Eichner Index). Linear regression and negative binomial models were used to assess the association between xerostomia and OHRQoL, adjusting for potential confounders. RESULTS: = 0.327). In adjusted negative binomial regression models, greater xerostomia severity was associated with worse oral health-related quality of life, with higher Xerostomia Inventory scores associated with increased OHIP-14 scores (IRR = 1.05; 95% CI: 1.03-1.08). CONCLUSION: Xerostomia was highly prevalent among older adults living in urban LTCFs and associated with impaired OHRQoL. These findings underscore the need for systematic screening, prevention and management strategies for xerostomia in LTCFs to improve the well-being of this vulnerable population.