Healthy Mom, Healthy Teeth: Assessing the Oral Health Needs of Pregnant Women in Indiana

Background:  Oral health should be maintained during pregnancy and through a woman’s lifespan. Physiologic changes during pregnancy may result in changes in the oral cavity, such as pregnancy gingivitis, benign oral gingival lesions, tooth erosion, dental caries, and periodontitis.

Methods: In 2014, ISDH surveyed pregnant women (n=1,242) and prenatal care coordinators (n=58) throughout the state to gain a better understanding of the issues facing pregnant women in Indiana. This two-fold project focused on identifying the social determinants and stressors that pregnant women are facing, such as oral health and access to a dentist.

Results: Of the women that completed the survey, 93% were Medicaid-eligible, 69% were single, and 72% of these pregnancies were unplanned. In addition, only 29.49% of participants had been to a dentist during their current pregnancy. Of those that had not been to a dentist, 36.5% indicated that lack of insurance or finances were the reason that they did not receive dental care during pregnancy. This was followed by 17.19% indicating that they did not have time, 14.06% stating that they did not believe they needed to see a dentist, and 4.69% stating that they were afraid to see a dentist. Additionally 11% indicated that they did not have a dentist and 10% stated that they did have a dentist but appointments were not available.

Conclusions: It is important to educate women about the various changes to the gums and teeth during pregnancy and to reinforce good oral health habits to keep the gums and teeth healthy.