Knowledge, Attitude, Practice, and Perception toward Maintenance of Oral Health among Pregnant Women in Eastern Nepal

Introduction: Oral health maintenance during pregnancy is an important public health issue worldwide. Research has shown that there is an association between gum disease and low birth weight, premature births as well as mothers with untreated dental caries will also pass on cariogenic bacteria to their children. The purpose of the present study was to determine the knowledge, attitude, practice, and perception toward the maintenance of oral health among pregnant women in Eastern Nepal. Methods: It was a descriptive, cross-sectional questionnaire survey of pregnant women. Ethical approval was obtained from the Institutional Ethical Review Committee and written informed consent was obtained from all participants. A convenience sample of 600 pregnant women was obtained. The data were analyzed using the SPSS software. Mean, standard deviation, and percentage were calculated. Results: Although 95% of the pregnant ladies said that oral health is very important or important, 45.4% had one or more dental problems including bleeding gums, tooth decay, loose teeth, and sensitivity. Only 43.8% had visited the dentist. Time, cost, and safety of treatment during pregnancy were the major constraints. Majority (>90%) of them brushed their teeth at least once daily using fluoridated toothpaste. Most of them were aware that they should go for dental checkup, preserve their natural teeth and that gum problems are more during pregnancy. Conclusions: Most of them had good knowledge regarding oral health care but they avoided dental care due to various constraints.