Evaluation of oral health status in pregnant women and its correlation with calcium and phosphate levels

Abstract

Aim: This study aimed to analyze the oral health conditions of pregnant women. The analysis involves evaluating two key indices: the decayed, missing, and filled teeth (DMFT) index and the basic erosive wear examination (BEWE) index. Furthermore, this study investigated potential correlations between calcium (Ca) and phosphate (P) levels within specific time intervals and the aforementioned oral health indices. Materials and methods: This study included 66 women. The examination consisted of assessing the condition of the teeth by using the DMFT index. Additionally, the erosive decay of the teeth was evaluated according to the BEWE index. Salivary concentrations of Ca and P were determined using a colorimetric method. These measurements were performed during the first (T1) and third (T3) trimesters of pregnancy. Results: The study results showed that the DMFT index value in T3 was significantly higher compared to that in T1. However, there were no significant differences in BEWE index values between the two time intervals. Furthermore, notable differences were observed in the levels of Ca and P between T1 and T3 (Z=4.87, p=0.000 and Z=2.95, p=0.003, respectively). Nevertheless, the analysis of the relationship between DMFT/BEWE indices and Ca and P levels found no significant correlation. Conclusions: The results suggest that the third trimester poses a greater oral health burden. Additionally, there were notable fluctuations in the Ca and P levels during pregnancy. These findings shed light on the correlation between pregnancy phases and oral health indicators, emphasizing the significance of the salivary composition.