Oral Health among Women – A Cross-sectional Study from South India

摘要

Objective: To evaluate oral health among women which would provide a baseline data to develop preventive and educational programmes. Material and methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out within the municipal corporation limits of Udupi district among women attending/visiting government and private hospital for antenatal check-up, check-up for their new born or the accompanying persons visiting the hospitals. Age, type of health care system, previous pregnancy was collected at the time of enrollment in the study. This was followed by recording of Community Periodontal Index and Loss of Attachment (CPI and LOA) for periodontal diseases and Decayed, Missing, Filled Tooth (DMFT) Index for dental caries. Results: A total of 1004 women (508 government and 496 private hospital) participated in this study. There was a significant difference in the periodontal status (mean CPI and LOA) among the three types of women (p<0.001 and <0.001). Post-hoc analysis showed that the expectant mothers had highest mean CPI and LOA followed by mothers with least mean score in non-pregnant women. There was a significant difference in the caries status (mean DT, MT, DMFT) among the three types of women (p=0.02, <0.001 and <0.001) however, no significant difference was seen with respect to mean filled tooth (FT). Post-hoc analysis showed that the expectant mothers and mothers had higher mean DT than non – pregnant women. Interestingly, it was seen that mothers had higher mean MT than expectant mothers and non-pregnant women. The overall mean DMFT score was significantly higher for mothers followed by expectant mothers with least being in non-pregnant women. Conclusion: A clear understanding of hormonal changes and its role in oral health and disease is needed for all the health care providers. Women in the reproductive age and who were expecting pregnancy should have thorough oral health screening and treatment.