Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1
BDS, MSc, Clinical instructor, Division of Pediatric Dentistry, Department of Developmental Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, Beirut Arab University, Beirut, Lebanon
2
BDS, MSc, PhD, DPHE, Associate Professor of Pediatric Dentistry, Faculty of Dentistry, Beirut Arab University, Lebanon, Faculty of Oral and Dental Medicine, Cairo University, Egypt
Abstract
Objectives: To assess the knowledge, attitude and oral hygiene practice of expectant mothers regarding infant’s oral health and their own oral hygiene practices, in Beirut, Lebanon.
Material and methods: Questionnaires were randomly distributed to 390 expectant mothers, in their 12-40 weeks of pregnancy, aged above18 years in the department of gynecology of 2 private hospitals, and 4 private maternity clinics in the Beirut and its suburbs. The questionnaire was divided into two parts. The first was concerned with the demographic background, and the second part included 18 close-ended questions.
Results: The overall score revealed that majority of expected mothers had fair knowledge, attitude and oral hygiene practices towards their infants and their own oral hygiene. Expected mothers’ educational qualification had a significant influence on the mentioned parameters. However, no significant differences were found in these parameters in relation to age, trimester of pregnancy and number of pregnancies.
Conclusion: Within the limitation of this study, it was concluded that prior to or during pregnancy, most pregnant women do not receive adequate education or information about the importance of maintaining good dental care and proper oral health practices.
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