Little is known about the oral health needs of pregnant women. PRAMS is an ongoing, population-based mail survey that samples state birth certificates and collects information from mothers who recently gave birth to a live-born infant. Using SUDAAN, 1998 data from two states that included oral health questions (IL and LA) were analyzed. Response rates exceeded 70% for the entire questionnaire. Risk ratios were computed for age, education, race, entry into prenatal care, and Medicaid status among mothers who reported having a dental problem and seeking dental care. In IL and LA (sample sizes=2032 and 2354, respectively), 35% and 29%, respectively, reported that they had gone to a dentist during their pregnancies; 23% (IL) and 25% (LA) said they had needed to see a dentist for a problem. Of those with a problem, only 55% (IL) and 54% (LA) actually sought care. Having a dental problem and seeking care did not differ significantly by most demographic variables. In both states, however, mothers not on Medicaid were significantly more likely to seek care if they had a dental problem (RR=2.17 [IL]; 1.27 [LA]). Given emerging data on oral disease transmission and risks, this state-specific information can be useful in designing programs to reach pregnant women, and to resolve oral health problems early, thus minimizing potential problems both for the mother and the infant.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this presentation the audience will have: 1. An understanding of the PRAMS survey as a new data source for oral health among pregnant women. 2. A knowledge of the prevalence of access to oral health care among pregnant women in two states. 3. Recognize specific maternal populations that are less likely to receive oral health care services while pregnant
Keywords: Maternal and Child Health, Oral Health Needs
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.