Understanding oral Health–Related quality of life in adults with serious mental illness: A scoping review

People with serious mental illness (SMI) experience substantial oral health inequalities that may adversely affect oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL). This scoping review mapped evidence on OHRQoL among adults with SMI and related psychiatric populations, examined associated factors, and identified evidence gaps. Following Arksey and O'Malley's framework and PRISMA-ScR, six electronic databases were searched for peer-reviewed primary studies published from January 2000 through April 2026. Evidence was classified as: (1) SMI populations; (2) other clinically diagnosed psychiatric populations; or (3) symptom-defined/community populations identified using validated screening instruments. A total of 1,586 records were identified, with 22 publications representing 21 unique study populations included: nine SMI, six other clinically diagnosed psychiatric, and six symptom-defined/community populations. Most studies were observational and cross-sectional. In SMI populations, poorer OHRQoL was associated with oral disease and treatment needs, xerostomia, psychiatric and psychosocial factors, and barriers to dental care. Poorer OHRQoL was also associated with mental health burden in other psychiatric and community populations. Studies were heterogeneous in psychiatric ascertainment, design, and OHRQoL measurement. No study evaluated an intervention specifically targeting OHRQoL in people with SMI. People living with SMI experience substantial OHRQoL burden involving functional, psychological, and social dimensions. Clearer definition of psychiatric populations and longitudinal, qualitative, and intervention research are needed, particularly to evaluate whether integrated and person-centered oral health strategies can improve OHRQoL among people with SMI.