Prevalence, Severity of Extension, and Risk Factors of Gingivitis in a 3-Month Pregnant Population: A Multicenter Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

The scope of this study was to assess the prevalence, severity of extension, and risk factors of gingivitis among pregnant women. In this cross-sectional study, 220 nulliparous women at 3 months of pregnancy were recruited in 2022 at the first obstetrical visit in Dakar, Senegal. Demographic characteristics, lifestyle habits, prenatal clinical status, and oral clinical parameters were recorded. Multivariable logistic regression modeling was used to assess relationships between gingivitis and risk factors. Eighty-eight percent of women had gingivitis, 15% were classified as moderate and 73% as severe. A total of 66.7% (95% CI [28.8–92.1]) of the sites had bleeding on interdental brushing. The odds for gingivitis decreased significantly for women consuming more than five portions of fruits and vegetables per day (OR = 0.15; 95% CI [0.03–0.66]) and increased in women who had a professional activity (OR = 6.75; 95% CI [1.27–35.87]) and high education. Concomitantly, the percentage of dental plaque (OR = 131.6; 95% CI [10.80–1619.71] and the severity of clinical attachment loss (OR = 7.70; 95% CI [3.16–18.92]) were important risk factors. Inverse associations were observed with increasing body mass index (OR = 0.76; 95% CI [0.63–0.93]). Our results underline that gingivitis cases and bleeding were particularly high among 3-month pregnant women. Literacy and adequate oral hygiene actions to modify behaviors and to achieve meticulous biofilm disorganization could make a favorable change in the gingival health outcome. Additionally, further research is necessary to precisely determine the role of biofilm-induced gingivitis and systemic-induced gingivitis in improving gingival conditions.

Relationship between fear of childbirth and oral health-related quality of life in pregnant women: the mediating effect of pregnancy anxiety

“…Pregnant women are at higher risk of developing oral diseases due to physiological, hormonal, and dietary changes during pregnancy [2] . Studies found that the prevalence of periodontitis in pregnant women was 40% [3] , the prevalence of gingivitis in pregnant women was 88% [4] , and the incidence of dental caries in pregnant women was 74% [5] . Maternal periodontal disease increases the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes such as preterm birth, low birth weight, and pre-eclampsia [6] .…”

Next preventive strategies for oral health: evolution or revolution?

“…Deficiencies in oral health prevention, health promotion, and care are particularly pronounced among adolescents and young adults. The burden of specific oral diseases, especially plaque-induced gingivitis, is very high for this generation ( 11 , 12 ). In fact, the current poor situation in terms of plaque-induced gingivitis and interproximal caries results primarily from inadequate oral hygiene.…”