European Journal of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences

INVESTIGATING THE IMPACT OF COMBINED ORAL CONTRACEPTIVES ON ORAL HEALTH: A CASE-CONTROL STUDY

Zaid Al-Tamimi*, BDS, Ahmad Al-Khatib, BDS, Motasem Fawarsea, BDS, Hashem Shajrawi, MD and
Hala AlFaqih, BDS

ABSTRACT

Background: Oral health is an essential component of an individual’s general health, and since many medications are taken orally, this increases the risk of infections by external microorganisms. Oral contraceptives (OCPs) are used by almost 50 million women globally and are associated with many systemic and oral manifestations. Purpose: In this case-control study, we aim to investigate the association between the use of combined OCPs and oral health. Methods: We conducted a case-control single-center study at Prince Hashim Military Hospital between the period of January 1st until April 30th of 2024. Women in the reproductive age and on OCPs presenting to the Dental Clinic were included in addition to a control group of women in the reproductive age with no reports of using OCPs. Periodontal examination included a full-mouth examination and was evaluated using the plaque index (PI) and gingival bleeding index (GBI). Demographic and clinical data were collected, and analysis was performed using appropriate statistical testing. Results: A total of 200 women were included, 54% were on OCPs. Women on OCPs had a significantly higher PI (29% vs. 14%, p < 0.001) and higher severity of GBI in with 40% experiencing moderate inflammation and 24% severe inflammation compared to lower percentages in non-OCP users (16% and 11%, respectively, p < 0.001). Logistic regression showed that OCP use was strongly associated with both positive plaque index (OR: 6.19, p < 0.001) and severe gingival bleeding (grades 2 and 3). Duration of OCP use was not significantly related to the plaque index. Conclusion: Our results found a significant association between OCP use and increased plaque accumulation and gingival inflammation, with users having higher odds of moderate to severe gingival issues. However, the duration of OCP use did not correlate with disease severity, highlighting the need for awareness and regular dental check-ups for OCP users.

Keywords: Oral contraceptive, gingivitis, Jordan, oral Health.