Author(s): Maria L Geisinger1, Michelle Robinson, Maninder Kaur, Robert W Gerlach, Russell Griffin, Nicolaas C and Michael S Reddy
Background: Pregnant women have been shown to demonstrate an increase in clinical signs and symptoms of gingivitis despite similar plaque levels to non-pregnant peers. Objective: The goal of this investigation was to utilize a comprehensive regimen of oral hygiene techniques and practices and to evaluate the methodology to teach that regimen by assessing periodontal health outcomes and health behaviors and knowledge in pregnant women. Methods: 120 pregnant participants with Gingival Index (GI) scores ≥ 2 at ≥ 50 % of tooth sites were recruited. At baseline, patients were examined and Plaque Index (PI), Gingival Index (GI), Probing Depth (PD) and Clinical Attachment Level (CAL) were recorded. Patients’ self-reported oral hygiene compliance and oral hygiene knowledge was examined using a pre- and post-test examination at baseline and after the study period. Intensive oral hygiene counseling was provided at baseline, 4 and 8 week visits. Clinical measures and tests of oral hygiene compliance and knowledge were repeated at follow up. Results: A statistically significant reduction in all clinical parameters was shown over the study period. On average whole mouth PI and GI scores were reduced by 54.7% and 48.4%, respectively, and the percentage of sites with PI and GI ≥ 2 decreased from 40% to 17% and 53% to 21.8%, respectively. Whole mouth PD also decreased an average of 0.45 mm and whole mouth CAL decreased an average of 0.24 mm. A statistically significant proportion of patients self-reported an increase in frequency of oral hygiene procedures and an increase in the use of all materials provided in the study oral care regimen. A greater proportion of patients also demonstrated increased knowledge regarding dental and maternal/fetal health after the intervention. Conclusion: Pregnancy may represent a unique opportunity for oral hygiene intervention.
