Oral Health and Periodontal Status of HIV+ PR Pregnant Women

Few studies have been performed on the oral health and periodontal status of HIV+ pregnant women. Infections from dental disease can increase health risk in these patients. Purpose: The aim of this cross sectional pilot study was to determine the oral health and periodontal status in PR HIV+ pregnant women. Methods: A convenience sample of 21 HIV+ pregnant women who attend the CEMI Project at PR Medical Center during the year 2008 were evaluated for caries, DMFT indexes, oral lesions associated to HIV/AIDS and periodontal disease parameters. The subjects were evaluated with a Florida Probe by a calibrated dentist on periodontal indexes as bleeding on probing, suppuration, cej and pocket depth. Also a questionnaire on socio demographic and behavioral issues was provided to participants. Data was statically analyzed with SSPS Program and descriptive statistics calculated. Results: The pregnant women mean age was 26.6 years. Mean DT and DMFT were 5.2 and 11.78 respectively. Mean sites of bleeding of probing = 6.6 (3.8 %), mean sites with pocket depth > 4 mm = 9.5 (5.5%), mean number of teeth with recession = 8.4, mean number of teeth with bleeding on probing = 5.5, mean number of teeth with pocket depth > 4mm = 5.6, mean number of teeth with loss of attachment > 4 mm = 5.1. A 50% prevalence of periodontal disease was found. No oral lesions related to HIV/AIDS were found. Conclusion: High levels of dental disease and needs of dental services were found for PR HIV+ pregnant women.