ORAL HEALTH STATUS, KNOWLEDGE AND PRACTICES AMONG PREGNANT WOMEN - A QUESTIONNAIRE STUDY.
Pragati U. Barge, *Dr. K.A. Kamala, Dr. S. Sankethguddad, Dr. Ajay G. Nayak, Dr. Ashwini Rani S.R., Dr. Abhijeeth R. Sanade
ABSTRACT
Background: Oral health is an important component of general health and should be maintained during pregnancy. Poor oral health during pregnancy has an impact on developing fetus and significant adverse potential effects. The present study aims at assessing the oral health status, knowledge and practices of pregnant women. Methodology: A total of 250 pregnant women attending outpatient department (OPD) of Krishna Hospital, KIMSDU, Karad were considered for the study. Demographic details and data were collected using 18 close-ended questions regarding the oral health status, knowledge and practices. The data was analyzed using SPSS software. Result: The mean level of oral health status, practices and knowledge was 77.05%, 46.32% and 58.64% respectively. 60% had dirty teeth, 58.40% eat sugary and sticky food stuffs, 29.60 had bad breath, 19.60% had bleeding gums. Only 34.80% clean their teeth twice daily, 68.80% did not know bad oral hygiene can affect growth of child, only 55.60% visited dentist during pregnancy and 47.60% did not know fist and last trimester not safe for dental treatment. Conclusion: The overall results suggest that the pregnant women have some good practices and knowledge regarding oral health. Routine oral screening and health education is required to improve oral health status in pregnancy. There is the also need for the development of guidelines that will promote referral and visit of pregnant women for dental consultation.
Keywords: oral health and pregnancy, status, knowledge and practice.
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