Oral Health Perceptions Among Elite Athletes and Elite Para-Athletes: Psychosocial Impacts, Sports Performance

Abstract Introduction: Oral health, part of general health, is essential for optimal athletic performance and well-being. Aims: To compare perceived oral health status, psychosocial and performance impacts among national elite para-athletes (EP) and elite athletes (EA). Methods: An cross-sectional, descriptive and comparative study was conducted using purposive sampling of EP & EA at the National Sports Institute, Malaysia. A validated questionnaire adapted from the Oral Health Screening Toolkit for Athletes (University College London) was administered from February 2022 to February 2024. Data were analysed descriptively and inferentially. Results: Participation involved 57 EP and 57 age- and sex-matched EA. Perceived oral health was positive in 40(70.1%) EP and 35(61.4%) EA, with more perceiving their general health positively. Perceived general or oral health showed no significant differences across groups. Psychosocial impacts were comparable, but EA reported significantly greater performance-related impacts (mean difference = 7.84, p = 0.019). Stronger correlations between perceived oral and general health were observed in EA. Discussion: The higher performance-related impacts among EA may reflect sport-specific physical demands and psychosocial factors. Correlations between perceived oral and general health underscore the importance of integrated care. Conclusion: Accessible, athlete-specific oral healthcare is needed to support well-being and performance in both groups.