Assessment of oral health and associated risk Factors among pregnant women attending antenatal Care in jimma university specialized hospital, Southwest ethiopia

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