Oral and Dental Health Status of Pregnant Women Referred to Perinatal Clinics in Southeastern Iran

Background and Aim: As maternal periodontal disease can increase the risk of preterm birth and low birth weight, this study aimed to investigate the oral health status of pregnant women considering the circumstances during pregnancy and the necessity to keep the mother and baby healthy.   Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 200 pregnant women referred to perinatal clinics in Kerman city. The participants’ oral health behavior, decayed, missing, and filled teeth (DMFT) score, plaque index (PI) and community periodontal index (CPI) were assessed. Data were analyzed by the Chi-square test and multivariate linear regression model using SPSS 21. Results: Of all, 39.5% had dental problems during pregnancy. Only 5.4% of them presented to a dentist. The participants’ concerns regarding the risks of dental procedures during pregnancy was the most common reason for not seeking dental treatment. The mean PI and DMFT were 0.75±0.48 and 11.29±3.88, respectively. Multivariate analysis showed that the DMFT index score had a significant correlation with age (P=0.001) and educational level (P=0.03). The CPI and gestational age (in weeks) were also significantly correlated (P=0.005). Conclusion: Due to poor oral health of pregnant women, healthcare planners should provide inter-professional, community-based, and preventive oral health interventions before and during pregnancy.