Pregnant Patient Knowledge and Behavior Regarding Perinatal Oral Health.

Objective Perinatal oral health is important to obstetric practice, with significant implications for maternal, fetal, and infant health. This study sought to describe and compare knowledge and behavior related to perinatal oral health in two distinct populations of pregnant women. Methods An anonymous 13-question survey was distributed at two patient centers (urban teaching clinics and suburban referral center), examining patient knowledge and behaviors pertaining to oral health. Descriptive statistics were tabulated. Groups were compared using Fisher's exact test for categorical variables, with Bonferroni correction for multiple comparisons. Results Total 262 surveys were completed. Suburban patients more often reported "good" oral health and having visited a dentist within 6 months. Both groups had similar misconceptions regarding oral health and pregnancy. Few identified the relationship between poor oral health and adverse pregnancy outcomes. A minority identified routine dental interventions as safe in pregnancy. Many patients practiced risky behaviors that could worsen oral health and increase risk of childhood caries in their progeny. Conclusion These data highlight that poor patient knowledge and understanding of perinatal oral health appear to cross demographic boundaries. This presents an opportunity for patient education that may help improve the health status of these individuals and their children.

Obstetric provider approach to perinatal oral health.

OBJECTIVE: To examine the practices and attitudes of obstetric providers in the state of Michigan on their approach to perinatal oral health. METHODS: An online survey was distributed using health care provider databases in the state of Michigan. Descriptive statistics were tabulated and Fisher's Exact Test was used for categorical variables. RESULTS: There were 146 respondents, 80 obstetrician-gynecologist (OB/GYN) and 66 certified nurse midwife (CNM) providers. Eighty percent acknowledged that perinatal oral health is an important consideration for optimal prenatal care, while only 53% reported having questions specific to oral health on their intake documents. Only 35% discussed oral health, 29% performed an oral cavity exam and 42% recommended oral health assessment by a dentist. CNMs were more likely than OB/GYNs to discuss the importance of oral health (48% versus 24%, (p <.05)) and recommend a formal dental assessment (61% versus 26% (p<.05)). These findings demonstrate a dichotomy of care in that obstetric providers recognize the importance of oral health care in pregnancy, but only a minority routinely incorporates these surveillance practices. CONCLUSION: These data highlight a gap in obstetric services that needs attention through specific educational initiatives and further research endeavors that address health care provider practice and patient barriers.