Knowledge, attitudes and practices of a group of medical practitioners in Trinidad toward oral health during pregnancy

Abstract

Objectives: To determine the knowledge, attitudes and practices of a group of medical practitioners in Trinidad toward oral health and dental treatment during pregnancy. Methods: One hundred and four medical practitioners practicing at both public and private institutions in Trinidad were invited to participate in this cross-sectional study over a period of 6 months. Participants were asked to complete a previously piloted self-administered 25 item questionnaire. Results: There was 100% response rate. Mean age 34.8 years, 54.8% male, the majority (72.1%) had been practising for 10 years or less. Almost half (48.1%) thought that swollen gums were not associated with pregnancy, and an even higher percentage (60.6%) of participants felt that bleeding gums were not associated with pregnancy. The majority felt that dental examination (98.1%), tooth brushing and flossing (99%), and the use of mouthwash (95.2%) were safe during pregnancy. All respondents in this study would advise their pregnant patients to have dental examinations but fewer (94.2%) would recommend routine cleanings for these patients. Conclusions: These data provide the first insight into the knowledge, attitudes and beliefs of medical doctors on pregnancy and oral health in the Caribbean. Dental health and pregnancy have several associations and medical doctors are suitably placed to advise their patients on the importance of the effects of dental treatment on pregnancy outcomes.

Keywords

• oral health
• pregnancy
• medical practitioners