Assessment of Knowledge, Attitude and Behavior of Pregnant Women in Pakistan towards Oral Hygiene - a Cross-Sectional Study

Studies have shown that there is higher incidence or gingival inflammation in pregnant women than non-pregnant women. At the time of pregnancy, the women is relatively immune compromised, resulting in their higher susceptibility to dental pathology. Periodontal disease is also been associated with risk of adverse pregnancy outcome. Poor oral hygiene condition and less knowledge of oral health care of mother has seen to be directly associated with the new born oral health.

The aim of this survey is to assess pregnant women´s oral hygiene status, self-care oral hygiene practice, oral belief and knowledge about oral problems in a low income setting in Pakistan. A cross sectional survey was conducted. Questionnaires were administered in maternal ward waiting area. A questionnaire was designed to assess pregnant women oral health behavior, their believes and knowledge about pregnancy in relation to oral health care. 180 women have participated in this survey. After they completed the questionnaire they undergone oral examination.

The mean age of the participants was 28 years, out of which 50 % were in their third trimester. 77 % of women used tooth brush and 47% of women brushed their teeth twice a day. 49 % of women never went to dentist and only 13 % went to dentist during pregnancy. 88 % of women did not know what is dental plaque but 62 % believed that tooth brush is effective means in reducing mouth debris. Surprisingly 80 % of women did not believe that there exists a causal relationship between pregnancy and oral health. 42 % of women were using betel nut during pregnancy.

On the examination, the mean score of DMF was found to be 3 and 84 % of women were found to have bleeding in their lower incisor. We found an association between monthly income and dental visits, use of betel nut, bleeding and presence of stains, Whereas education was found to be associated with cleaning type use, dental visit and knowledge.

Economical status and educational background are one factor influencing the utilization of dental care during pregnancy. In addition, lack of practice standard and persistent myths on effects of dental care on pregnancy and concern about fetus safety can be one of factor causing pregnant women to avoid treatment and dental checkups. Nevertheless, pregnancy is the best time, when women can be motivated to have healthy changes. For this physicians and obstrecians, should to address women oral problem when they come on regular check up during pregnancy and refer to a dentist.