Maintaining good oral health is an important part of overall health, which is especially more important during pregnancy. However, in Bhutan, many women have limited knowledge about this, says the first-ever research studies on maternal oral health.
The research, which was conducted last year, reveals that less knowledge has impeded women to practice good oral hygiene, and thus highlights “Expectant mothers are in urgent need of dental care.”
Researchers have widely observed that from the 443 pregnant women surveyed at three referral hospitals in the country, over 80 per cent have not visited the hospital for oral health check up even once. They also learnt that 40 percent of women had active tooth decay during the check up and nearly 60 per cent have dental caries.
Dental caries or tooth decay is an infectious and communicable disease that can be transmitted from mothers to infants. Jigme Dorji Wangchuk National Referral Hospital (JDWHRH) said awareness on the importance of oral health during pregnancy will improve health of both mother and the child.
“Oral health in pregnant women is not only the health of a woman herself but also for the child in her womb. So, if pregnant women have good oral health, they are supposed to have less bacteria or germs in their mouth which will be transmitted to their children through breast feeding, sharing of utensils or even kissing and hugging,” said Dr. Sonam Ngedup, the Pedodontist with JDWNRH.
Swollen and sensitive gums are the most common dental problems among pregnant women known as pregnancy gingivitis. Aside from affecting the mother, gum problems can affect babies too.
“Pregnant women should visit the dentist on a regular basis. In the first trimester, they don’t have to visit because of the vomiting and nausea. But from the second trimester, they should get regular check up, know about oral hygiene care, and what diets to take in,” added the Pedodonist.
Annual reports from the health ministry show that the dental caries is the most common acute condition than other chronic diseases in the country.
The study recommends integrating oral health promotion and dental care into maternity and pediatric care. Nationwide campaign to promote the importance of oral health and disease prevention for pregnant women and children is other key recommendation the research provides. The research was carried out by a team of researchers from Khesar Gyapo University of Medical Sciences of Bhutan, JDWNRH, and Yale School of Public Health Faculty in the US.
Staying healthy by practising good oral hygiene during pregnancy
Pedodontists advice that pregnant women can keep periodontal disease under control and maintain good oral hygiene by following these tips:
* Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a tooth brush and toothpaste
* Replace your toothbrush every three months
* Floss daily
*Get a dental check-up and teeth cleaning at least twice a year
* Avoid smoking and other forms of tobacco
*Avoid candy and other sugary foods
*Eat a well-balanced diet
Apart from pregnant women, pedodontists also recommend children and adults to follow these dental hygiene tips to ensure that they maintain good oral health.
