Prevalence of Periodontal Disease in Pregnant Women of a Family Medicine Unit in Acapulco, Guerrero

Abstract

Objective: to determine the periodontal health in pregnant women. Methods: observational, cross-sectional and analytical study. It was done in 88 pregnant women who had prenatal care control. A survey was applied where elements such as socio-demographic, smoking habit, quarter of gestation, knowledge about oral health and dental assisting were collected. Plaque and periodontal disease were evaluated with Löe and Silness index and Russel index. Results: 27 women (31%) referred tooth brushing three or more times a day. 45 (51%) consulted the dentist during pregnancy; 63 (72%) received guidance on how to prevent dental caries and gingivitis. The main reasons for consultation to the dentist were pain in 21 (23.9%) and a dental disease in 20 (22.7%). Prevalence of plaque and periodontal disease plaque was 74 and 65%, respectively. There is no association of periodontal disease and plaque in regards to oral health knowledge, employment and education. Conclusion: periodontal disease and plaque showed similar prevalence to that found in other studies. Pregnant woman consult a dentist in case of emergency and does not know the importance of consulting the dentist during prenatal care.