Oral status of pregnant women-a hospital based study

Abstract

Oral health of women during pregnancy is important. Not only can it compromise the outcomes of pregnancy, it may also af-fect the overall health of the newborn. Proper dental care during pregnancy is very important, since pregnancy causes various hormonal changes in the body that can actually increase the risk of developing gum diseases. The aim of the study was to assess the oral status of pregnant women who visited Saveetha Dental College. A survey was conducted among pregnant females who had reported to Saveetha Dental College, from the time period of June 2019 to March 2020. A questionnaire consisting of questions on oral health was asked. Patient records were reviewed and 60 pregnant females were selected. Descriptive statistics, cross tabulation and chi-square test were done by SPSS IBM software 20.0. Bleeding gums were reported by 68%, dental caries by 61%, halitosis by 70% while mobility and sensitivity was reported by 35% and 33% respectively. No association was found between the diet of pregnant women and their oral status. Pearson’s Chi Square value: 3.389, p value: 0.06 (>0.05). No association was found between the diet of pregnant women and their oral status.. Within the limits of the present study oral status of pregnant women was assessed. Most patients experienced gingival bleeding, dental caries and halitosis while few patients experience mobility and sensitivity. No association was found between the diet of pregnant women and their oral status.