Saúde bucal na gravidez: fatores associados à consulta odontológica e orientações preventivas

Abstract

Introduction: Pregnancy can predispose or exacerbate dental conditions due to the complex hormonal, physiological, and psychological changes occurring during this period. Therefore, it is an ideal time for healthcare professionals to establish dialogue with pregnant women and address essential aspects. Prenatal care should be multidisciplinary, including guidance from a dentist surgeon on the prevention and treatment of oral problems, as oral health during pregnancy is a crucial factor for the birth of healthy babies. Objective: To investigate the factors associated with dental consultations and oral health guidance during pregnancy among pregnant women attended at Primary Healthcare Units managed by the Catholic University of Pelotas. Method: This cross-sectional observational study was conducted with pregnant women over 18 years old, recruited from Primary Healthcare Units managed by the Catholic University of Pelotas, between May and October 2023. Data were collected through telephone administered questionnaires. The collected data were analyzed using International Business Machines (IBM) Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). A descriptive analysis of variables was performed, and associations between outcomes and variables of interest were assessed through bivariate analysis (Chi-square test), with a significance level of 95% (p<0.05). Results: The study included 151 pregnant women, of whom only 39.7% consulted a dentist during pregnancy, and 64.9% did not receive oral health guidance. A higher prevalence of consultations was observed among women in their first pregnancy (51.9%, p=0.023) compared to those with previous pregnancies. Additionally, pregnant women who received oral health guidance were more likely to consult a dentist (69.8%, p=0.000) compared to those who did not. Women who underwent dental consultations during pregnancy had a higher prevalence of receiving guidance on oral care for themselves and their babies (61.7%, p=0.000) compared to those who did not consult. Furthermore, pregnant women who consulted for prenatal dental care purposes received more oral health guidance (85.2%, p=0.006) than those who consulted for other reasons. Although sociodemographic factors are related to access to dental services, no significant associations were found. Conclusion: This study highlights the urgent need to promote oral health during pregnancy, emphasizing the low prevalence of dental consultations among pregnant women and the insufficient receipt of oral care guidance.