Awareness, attitude, and practices towards maintenance of oral health among pregnant women and oral health awareness and attitude among gynecologists in Hubli and Dharwad

Abstract

Aims and Objectives: The aim of the study was to determine the awareness, attitude, and practices toward the maintenance of oral health among pregnant women and to appraise the awareness and attitude among gynecologists regarding the oral health of expectant mother, using self-questionnaires. Study Design: Cross-sectional survey was conducted among 100 pregnant women, and the findings were recorded along with a closed-ended questionnaire and documented in a specially designed pro forma. The response to another set of questions answered by 65 practicing gynecologists from government and private hospitals in twin cities of Hubli-Dharwad was recorded in a separate pro forma. Results: Analysis of data revealed that 65% of pregnant patients were unaware of pregnancy-related oral diseases. Although 83% of the gynecologist’s considered oral health as a part of prenatal care, only 49% of the gynecologists were little aware of oral manifestations caused by hormonal changes during pregnancy. Conclusion: The complete results here suggest that awareness, knowledge, and practices of pregnant women have to be essentially upgraded. The findings of this survey with gynecologists indicate the need to update their knowledge regarding oral health in expectant mothers.