Abstract:
Background: Dental problems such as caries, erosion, epulis, periodontal infection,
loose teeth, and ill-fitting crowns, bridges, and dentures (prostheses) may have special
significance during pregnancy. During pregnancy teeth and gum are more susceptible
to bacterial accumulation due to an associated increase in hormone levels.
Objective: The purpose of this study is to assess the oral health status and associated
risk factors among pregnant women attending antenatal care at Jimma University
Specialized Hospital.
Methods: A prospective hospital based cross sectional study was conducted on
pregnant women attending Antenatal care at Jimma University Specialized Hospital,
Maternal and Child Health Clinic from March 1-May 30, 2013.The simple random
sampling technique was used to determine the sample size. Data was collected by
using structured questionnaires containing socio-demographic and other oral health
related factors. For each woman intraoral examination was done using periodontal
probe and by visual assessment of the patient.
Result: Majority of the respondents were Oromo ethnically (55%, n=116),
99(49.9%)were Muslim in religion, attended secondary education were 37%, The
prevalence of Periodontal disease and dental carries was 31.8% and 60.7%
respectively. There was a significant association between oral hygiene and maternal
education, age of the respondents, maternal occupation and household monthly income
(P<0.05).
Conclusion: The prevalence of dental caries and periodontal disease was higher and
affected by monthly income, education, age and occupation.
Recommendation: Jimma University Specialized Hospital Maternal and Children Health
unit dental clinic and Dentistry department should take measures in order to educate
mothers on dental care during pregnancy
