The Perceived Oral Health Status, Practices, Knowledge and Periodontal Status of Pregnant Women in a Maternity Hospital in Trinidad

Background The effects of physiological changes that occur during pregnancy on oral tissues have been well documented. The oral health status, practices, knowledge and periodontal status of pregnant women has not been studied before in Trinidad. The aim of this study is to report that of pregnant women in a maternity hospital in Trinidad.Methods A descriptive oral health survey involving a self-administered questionnaire was undertaken from a convenience sample of pregnant women who attended a maternity hospital in Trinidad. A simple oral health examination took place at the School of Dentistry clinic. Data included education and employment status, medical and dental history, frequency and reason for dental attendance, and the patients’ perceived oral health status, knowledge and practices. Examination included the Basic Periodontal Examination (BPE). Data were analyzed using SPSS version 24.0 and ethical approval was obtained by the University of the West Indies Campus Ethics Committee.Results One hundred and sixty one pregnant women participated and 79.5% were between the ages 26 to 45. Fifty seven per cent attended high school and 58.1% were employed. Nearly 60% rated their oral health as average or good. The majority of women (91.9%) did not attend the dentist routinely. Almost half (46.0%) of the participants said safety concerns with dental treatment during pregnancy would prevent them from seeking care. 54.7% said the cost of dental treatment would act as a barrier to care. The majority had good oral health knowledge for flossing (97.5%) however 37.3% thought that dental care should be avoided during pregnancy unless it was an emergency. Nearly 60% had some form of periodontitis mild (34.2%) or moderate to severe (25.2%). Significant associations found between level of education and brushing, and also between age and smoking, use of mouthwash and BPE.Conclusions Although oral health knowledge in areas of tooth brushing, flossing and need for attending the dentist was good, in other areas there were serious misconceptions such as dental care should be avoided during pregnancy. Understanding oral health needs of pregnant women can guide oral health promotion and delivery of preventive care and potentially improve pregnancy outcomes.