Pregnancy, parity and periodontal disease

Association between periodontal health and trait anxiety in Egyptian women: A cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVES

This study explored the relationship between periodontal problems and trait anxiety in a sample of Egyptian women.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The Egyptian validated Arabic version of the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory-Trait subscale was used to measure levels of trait anxiety, and the periodontal health status of 451 Egyptian women was assessed using the Community Periodontal Index. Data were also collected on potential covariates such as age, educational level, marital status, parity, smoking, and oral healthcare-seeking behavior. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was done to evaluate the association between periodontal diseases and trait anxiety.

RESULTS

Among study participants, and after adjusting for some of the potential confounders, trait anxiety exhibited weak association with periodontal diseases (OR: 1.11; 95% CI= 1.07, 1.14; p <0.001). Also, old age (OR: 1.12; 95% CI = 1.07, 1.17; p < 0.001) as well as parity (OR: 7.26; 95% CI = 2.89, 18.27; p <0.001) were significantly associated with periodontal problems in the adjusted model.

CONCLUSION

While the study findings may implicate that personality traits, such as trait anxiety, could be linked to periodontal diseases more research is warranted to confirm or reject this association.

MMP-8 in Periodontal Sites of Postpartum and without-Any-Pregnancy Women

The hypothesis that physiological changes in women can affect periodontal tissues is the subject of this study, and inflammatory markers such as matrix metalloproteinase-8 can measure susceptibility to inflammation. The study aimed to analyze MMP-8 levels in periodontal sites of postpartum women and women without a history of pregnancy, comparing health parameters and periodontal disease. This is a case-control study with 40 participants, 20 cases (women in the postpartum period) and 20 controls (women without any pregnancy), who underwent clinical periodontal examination and the collection of crevicular gingival fluid. The ELISA test was used to detect MMP-8 levels. Postpartum women had worse periodontal parameters, such as bleeding index on probing, number of sites with CAL ≥ 3, and fewer teeth present. In the group of women without a history of pregnancy, a significantly lower MMP-8 level was observed in healthy sites and a higher one was observed in periodontal pockets (p < 0.01). In contrast, in postpartum women, MMP-8 levels were elevated in both healthy sites and periodontal pockets (p > 0.01). The MMP-8 levels in gingival fluid appear to be related to periodontal clinical parameters and may be a possible marker of enzymatic changes involved in periodontal tissue destruction in postpartum women.

Clinical Use of Paraprobiotics for Pregnant Women with Periodontitis: Randomized Clinical Trial

Periodontal disease is very common in pregnant women. Paraprobiotics are a subset of probiotics. They can be defined as inactivated microbial cells providing health benefits to the host and are considered particularly safe. The aim of this study was to compare the periodontal health of pregnant women and puerperae after 6 months of home use of paraprobiotics. A total of 30 pregnant women were enrolled and divided into two groups: the test group, who had to use a paraprobiotic-based toothpaste (Biorepair Peribioma Pro, Coswell S.p.A., Funo di Argelato, BO, Italy) and mousse (Mousse Mouthwash Biorepair Peribioma, Coswell S.p.A.) twice a day, and the control group, who had to use only the paraprobiotic-based toothpaste. The time frames of the study were: 1 month (T1), 3 months (T2) and 6 months (T3), and data were collected during pregnancy and in the period immediately following delivery. The following indices were evaluated at T0, T1, T2 and T3: clinical attachment loss (CAL), probing pocket depth (PPD), bleeding on probing (BOP), plaque control record (PCR), modified marginal gingival index (mMGI), papillary marginal gingival index (PMGI) and recessions (R). All data were subjected to statistical analysis. PCR decreased significantly from T0 to T1 in the control group and from T0 to T2 and from T0 to T3 in the test group. BOP tended to decrease in both groups, but a significant reduction was observed only in the test group. CAL, PPD, PMGI and mMGI tended to decrease gradually in both groups without significant differences between or within groups. The combination of the paraprobiotic-based toothpaste and the paraprobiotic-based mousse significantly reduced BoP and plaque control over time, although there were no significant differences with the use of the paraprobiotic-based toothpaste alone. In addition, the combination of the two products promoted a trend towards the better stabilization of recessions.

Interleukin 1 beta and its association with the periodontal health of pregnant women

Objectives

In this study, we measured and compared serum and gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) levels of interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β) in pregnant women with periodontitis and pregnant women with a healthy periodontium. We also determined the prevalence of periodontitis among pregnant women attending Omdurman Midwifery Hospital.

Materials

This was a hospital-based clinical study and laboratory investigation using ELISA tests of 80 pregnant women in the third trimester conducted at the Omdurman Midwifery Hospital in Khartoum, Sudan. The study group consisted of 50 women while the control group consisted of 30 women.

Results

Independent samples t-tests were used to compare serum and GCF levels of IL-1β between the study and control groups. Pearson's correlation analysis was also used to compare gingival parameters and IL-1β levels in the GCF. For each comparison, the p-value was fixed at 0.05. The GCF in the research group showed a considerable increase in IL-1β levels. There was also a strong positive association between high IL-1β levels in the research group's GCF and probing pocket depth (PPD) and clinical attachment level (CAL) levels.

Conclusions

Our study provides further evidence that periodontitis, as measured by a PD ≥4 mm and a CAL ≥3 mm, is associated with an increased level of IL-1β in the GCF of pregnant women with active periodontal disease during pregnancy and may include the transient translocation of oral organisms to the utero-placental unit, inciting placental inflammation or oxidative stress early in pregnancy, ultimately resulting in placental damage and clinical manifestations.

Parity, dental caries and implications for maternal depletion syndrome in northern Nigerian Hausa women

BACKGROUND

Female reproductive history, especially high parity, affects general health and may impact negatively on oral health. While parity has been positively linked to tooth loss, the specific association between parity and caries has not been adequately investigated.

AIM

To determine the association between parity and caries in a population of higher parity women. Influences of likely confounders (age, socio-economic status, reproductive parameters, oral health practices and sugar consumption between meals) were considered.

METHODS

This was a cross-sectional study involving 635 Hausa women of varying parity aged 13-80 years. Socio-demographic status, oral health practices and sugar consumption were obtained using a structured interviewer-administered questionnaire. All decayed, missing and filled teeth due to caries (excluding third molars) were noted, and tooth loss etiology was queried. Associations with caries were evaluated through correlation, ANOVA, post hoc analyses and Student's t tests. Effect sizes were considered for magnitude of differences. Multiple regression (binomial model) was used to investigate predictors of caries.

RESULTS

Hausa women had a high prevalence of caries (41.4%) despite low sugar consumption; nonetheless the overall mean DMFT score was very low (1.23 ± 2.42). Older, higher parity women experienced more caries, as did those with longer reproductive spans. Additionally, poor oral hygiene, use of fluoride toothpaste and frequency of sugar consumption were significantly associated with caries.

CONCLUSION

Higher parity (>6 children) was associated with higher DMFT scores. These results suggest that a form of maternal depletion, expressed as heightened caries susceptibility and subsequent tooth loss, occurs with higher parity.

The bidirectional relationship between periodontal disease and pregnancy via the interaction of oral microorganisms, hormone and immune response

Periodontal disease has been suggested to be linked to adverse pregnancy outcomes such as preterm birth, low birth weight, and preeclampsia. Adverse pregnancy outcomes are a significant public health issue with important clinical and societal repercussions. This article systematically reviews the available epidemiological studies involving the relationship between periodontal disease and adverse pregnancy outcomes over the past 15 years, and finds a weak but independent association between adverse pregnancy outcomes and periodontal disease. The bidirectional association and the potential mechanisms are then explored, focusing on three possible mechanisms: inflammatory reaction, oral microorganisms and immune response. Specifically, elevated systemic inflammation and increased periodontal pathogens with their toxic products, along with a relatively suppressed immune system may lead to the disruption of homeostasis within fetal-placental unit and thus induce adverse pregnancy outcomes. This review also explains the possible mechanisms around why women are more susceptible to periodontal disease. In conclusion, pregnant women are more likely to develop periodontal disease due to hormonal changes, and periodontal disease has also been suspected to increase the incidence of adverse pregnancy outcomes. Therefore, in order to lessen the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes, both obstetricians and dentists should pay attention to the development of periodontal diseases among women during pregnancy.

Incarceration exposure and women's oral health experiences during pregnancy

RATIONALE

Prior research has documented an association between incarceration and poor oral health outcomes. Likewise, recent scholarship has also detailed that women exposed to incarceration either directly or vicariously through a partner during pregnancy incur worse health outcomes. However, no previous research has assessed the connection between incarceration exposure and oral health during pregnancy.

OBJECTIVE

The current study assesses the link between maternal incarceration exposure and oral health during pregnancy.

METHODS

Data are from the Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (PRAMS) from years 2016-2019 (N = 60,342). Logistic regression was used to assess the relationship between incarceration and oral health.

RESULTS

Women exposed to incarceration exhibited worse oral health outcomes in the form of being more likely to report not knowing the importance of oral care, not having an oral health discussion with a provider, not getting a teeth cleaning, as well as being likely to report needing to see a dental provider, having visited a dental provider for a problem during pregnancy, and having more unmet dental care needs.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings add to a burgeoning literature that demonstrates a woman's prenatal exposure to incarceration poses risk for overall health and wellbeing. Given the influence of both incarceration exposure and oral health during pregnancy for maternal and infant health, the findings suggest that coordination between criminal justice, public health, and oral health experts can develop programmatic efforts that expand access to oral health care and improve oral health literacy among incarceration-exposed pregnant women.

Prevalence of periodontal disease in pregnancy: A systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to systematically assess the epidemic trend of periodontal disease in pregnancy.

DATA

Eligibility criteria comprised studies that reported periodontitis and the periodontal indicators of BOP (+) or CAL≥4 mm or PD≥4 mm among pregnant women. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were applied where applicable. Risk of bias was assessed using the Critical Appraisal Checklist for prevalence studies proposed by The Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI). Meta-analyses were conducted to estimate the pooled effect measures. Q-statistic, I² statistic, subgroup and sensitivity analyses assessed study heterogeneity.

SOURCES

Electronic search of articles was conducted using PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, Scopus, and Ovid from January 2000 to January 2022.

RESULTS

A total of 20 studies were included in the meta-analysis. The prevalence of periodontitis among pregnancy was 40% (95% Confidence Interval (CI): [0.15, 1.00]). The prevalence rates were 67% (CI [0.56, 0.80]), 42% (CI [0.27, 0.57]) and 24% (CI [0.12, 0.37]) for BOP (+), PD≥4 mm and CAL≥4 mm respectively. Regarding subgroup meta-analyses, the prevalence rates of BOP (+) and PD≥4 mm presented a gradual increase throughout pregnancy, while the highest prevalence rate of CAL≥4 mm was in the 2nd trimester.

CONCLUSIONS

It was observed a high prevalence of periodontal disease in pregnancy. However, heterogeneity was high among included studies. More high-quality epidemiologic investigations on periodontal disease in pregnancy are still needed.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Periodontal disease in pregnancy is highly prevalent which results in a reduced quality of life, frequent systemic pathologies and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Given the unhealthy consequences, public health impact, and expansive disease burden, it is worthwhile to investigate more aspects of periodontal disease during pregnancy.

Prevalence and correlates of periodontitis among Kenyan women planning to conceive

Background

Periodontitis has been associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes. Little is known about the burden and risk factors for periodontitis among reproductive age women in sub-Saharan Africa. This analysis aimed to determine the prevalence and correlates of periodontitis among Kenyan women planning to conceive.

Methods

HIV-seronegative, reproductive-age women who were planning to conceive were enrolled and underwent a periodontal examination. Following the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention clinical case definitions, the presence and severity of periodontitis was determined by establishing the level of clinical periodontal attachment loss and graded in three categories: no/mild, moderate, and severe. Secondary outcomes included the scores on the Gingival Index and Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth (DMFT) Index. Correlates of periodontitis were examined using univariable and multivariable logistic regression.

Results

Of the 647 women in the study, 84% (n = 541) had no/mild periodontitis, 15% (n = 97) had moderate periodontitis, and 1% (n = 9) had severe periodontitis. Mild gingivitis was present in 61% (n = 396) of women, while 27% (n = 176) had moderate gingivitis, and 1% (n = 9) had severe gingivitis. The majority (75%, n = 487) of women had a DMFT index in the very low range (score < 5). Periodontitis was observed in 12% (12/101) of nulliparous women compared to 13% (36/286) of women with one prior delivery (prevalence ratio [PR] 1.03, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 0.57–1.96), 21% (36/170) of women with two prior deliveries (PR 1.78, 95% CI 0.97–3.26), and 24% (22/90) of women with 3 or more prior deliveries (PR 2.06, 95% CI 1.08–3.92).

Conclusion

This study demonstrated a substantial prevalence of moderate-severe periodontitis among women planning to conceive in Kenya. These results highlight the need to address the oral care needs of reproductive age women, particularly those with multiple prior pregnancies.

Hormonal Fluctuations and Periodontal Status in Postmenopausal Women

Introduction. While the short-term effects of hormonal events on gingival inflammation have been well described, their long-term effects on the periodontium have received less attention. Our investigation was aimed at evaluating the correlation between hormonal fluctuations and periodontal status in postmenopausal women from the profile of the Rafsanjan Cohort Study. Material and Methods. We used the data obtained from the profile of the Rafsanjan Cohort Study (RCS) as a part of the prospective epidemiological research studies in Iran (PERSIAN). The RCS includes 10,000 participants aged 35–70 years old. Among this population, the periodontal status data of 4143 women were available. Of these 4,143, the postmenopausal women were included in the study, and those who had a history of gingival treatment during the past 6 months were excluded from the study. Finally, 928 postmenopausal women were included in the present study. Periodontal status was assessed by measuring the clinical attachment loss, pocket depth, and bleeding on probing (BOP). Univariate and multivariate regression analyses were applied using three different models. Results. The results showed that 53.2% of postmenopausal women had periodontitis. There were significant differences between the participants with and without periodontitis in brushing frequency and educational status $\left(P<0.05\right)$ . After adjusting for all potential confounders, no correlation was found between hormonal fluctuations and periodontal status. Conclusion. There was no correlation between hormonal fluctuations and periodontal status.

Prevalence of gingivitis and risk factors among pregnant women from Acapulco, Guerrero: a cross-sectional study

Introduction

Gingivitis is a condition that has been associated with an exaggerated inflammatory response of the gums to oral biofilm, attributed to the secretion of hormones during pregnancy.

Objectives

To estimate the prevalence of gingivitis and identify associated risk factors among pregnant women in a private medical clinic from Acapulco, Guerrero.

Material and methods

Cross-sectional study in a convenience sample of 92 pregnant women, during the period from January to March 2020. A self-administered questionnaire collected sociodemographic data, economic income, oral hygiene habits and personal pathological history. The periodontium was evaluated based on the new classification of gingival health and gingivitis induced by oral biofilm on six representative teeth. Multivariate analysis identified factors associated with gingivitis using the odds ratio and its 95% confidence interval as an estimate of the strength of association with CIETmap statistical software.

Results

The prevalence of gingivitis was 60% (55/92). Two factors remained in the final model of the multivariate analysis. The main associated strength was found in the variable of not using oral hygiene aids (ORa= 6.76; CI 95%= 2.01-22.78). The other variable was not attending dental visits (ORa= 3.74; CI 95%= 1.44-9.73).

Conclusion

Gingivitis affected about six out of ten pregnant women. Knowing the risk factors, it will be important to reinforce health education strategies and the importance of clinical monitoring during pregnancy.

Does having children affect women's oral health? A longitudinal study

BACKGROUND

Many believe women's oral health deteriorates as a result of having children. If so, such associations should exist among women but not among men. The aims of this study were to investigate whether number of children is associated with experience of dental disease and tooth loss among both men and women and to examine whether this association is affected by other variables of interest.

METHODS

This study used data from the Dunedin Multidisciplinary Health and Development study, a longitudinal study of 1037 individuals (48.4% female) born from April 1972 to March 1973 in Dunedin, New Zealand, who have been examined repeatedly from birth to age 45 years.

RESULTS

Data were available for 437 women and 431 men. Those with low educational attainment were more likely to have more children and began having children earlier in life. Having more children was associated with experiencing more dental caries and tooth loss by age 45, but this association was dependent on the age at which the children were had. Those entering parenthood earlier in life (by age 26) had poorer dental health than those entering parenthood later in life, or those without children. There was no association between number of children and periodontal attachment loss (PAL). Low educational attainment, poor plaque control, never routine dental attendance, and smoking (for PAL) were associated with PAL, caries experience, and tooth loss.

CONCLUSIONS

Social factors associated with both the timing of reproductive patterns and health behaviors influence the risk of dental disease and its management.

Periodontal Pathogens and Preterm Birth: Current Knowledge and Further Interventions

Preterm labor is defined as a birth before 37 weeks of gestation and occurs in 5–20% of pregnancies. Preterm labor, as multifactorial entity associated with a high risk of neonatal morbidity and mortality, is influenced by maternal, fetal and environmental factors. Microbiological studies suggest that infectious pathogens may account for 25–40% of preterm birth. Infections of different sites, like genital, urinary tract infections, and pneumonia, are linked to the preterm labor. The most recent epidemiological studies consistently report that maternal periodontal disease is associated with preterm delivery, as well as the association between the presence of pathogenic oral bacteria in the placenta and adverse pregnancy outcomes. On the other hand, some previously published papers found periodontal bacteria in placentas of term pregnancies. In spite of a huge research done on the topic, both experimental and clinical, there are many controversial opinions about the role of periodontal infections in preterm birth. Thus, this comprehensive review addresses this very important topic and evaluates novel strategies of preventive and therapeutic approaches.

Effectiveness of Alcohol-free Mouth Rinse Containing Essential Oils and Fluoride as an Oral Hygiene Adjunct among Pregnant Thai Women: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Aim:

This 3-month, double-blind, two-center, parallel, randomized controlled clinical trial compared the improvement of oral hygiene status from alcohol-free essential oils (EO) with 0.05% fluoride mouthwash to the control (0.05% fluoride mouthwash).

Materials and Methods:

One hundred and fifty-four pregnant women were clinically examined to determine Modified Gingival Index (MGI), Plaque Index (PI), and Winkel Tongue Coating Index (WTCI) at baseline, 2 weeks, and 3 months by calibrated examiners. After supragingival scaling and provision of a tooth brushing method, participants were randomly assigned to daily use of alcohol-free EO or the control rinse for 30s at bedtime. Repeated measures of analysis of variance (ANOVA) were performed to assess the effectiveness of alcohol-free EO with 0.05% fluoride mouthwash on MGI, PI, and WTCI scores.

Results:

One hundred and forty subjects completed the study. The dropout rate of 9.1% (n = 14) was mainly due to loss of follow-up. At baseline, no significant differences were observed between the intervention and the control groups for MGI (1.19±0.57 vs. 1.11±0.48, P = 0.371), PI (1.53±0.56 vs. 1.47±0.48, P = 0.439), and WTCI (0.88±0.48 vs. 0.88±0.50, P = 0.990). There was a statistically significant reduction of MGI, PI, and WTCI scores over time (P < 0.001). However, no significant differences were observed for between-group comparisons for all measured indices at any time point. No adverse effect was reported in either group.

Conclusion:

At the end of 3-month period, improvement of oral hygiene of pregnancy women in this study was evidence. However, the use of alcohol-free EO mouthwash as supplements to the daily oral hygiene did not provide a significant improvement in terms of plaque, gingival, and tongue coating indices.

High Parity Is an Independent Risk Factor for Tooth Loss in Women: A Community-Based Takahata Study in Japan

Risk factors for tooth loss have been widely examined previously. However, no previous study has comprehensively investigated the risk factors, including lifestyle-related specific factors (parity, oral health habits, and socioeconomic status), for fewer than 20 teeth among women in the general population in Japan. This cross-sectional study explored the association of these risk factors, especially parity, with having fewer than 20 teeth among Japanese women. A self-reported questionnaire including items on lifestyle-related risk factors (parity, oral health, diet [e.g., alcohol and sucrose consumption]) and socioeconomic status was sent by post to female residents (age ≥ 40 years) of Takahata town, Yamagata Prefecture, in 2005. Multivariate logistic regression analysis including 3,854 eligible participants was performed to investigate the association between various factors (including parity) and having fewer than 20 teeth. The results indicated that, compared with nulliparous women, women with two, three, and four completed pregnancies had 2.485-, 2.844-, and 4.305-fold increased risk of having fewer than 20 teeth, respectively. Our study is the largest-scale study of the general female population in Japan and the first study to comprehensively investigate risk factors (parity, oral health status, and socioeconomic status) for fewer than 20 teeth. We thus found that higher parity, especially, two or more, was independent risk factors for having less than 20 teeth among Japanese women. In conclusion, the present study emphasizes the importance of good oral health habits in women, especially, during pregnancy and in the postpartum period, to maintain 20 or more teeth.

Association between parity and tooth loss among northern Nigerian Hausa women

BACKGROUND

Female reproduction is associated with physiological, metabolic, and nutritional demands that can negatively affect health and are possibly cumulative when parity is high. While it is probable that maternal oral health is similarly affected, available evidence is based on fairly low parity populations and likely confounders affecting oral health status were not considered.

AIM

To determine the relationship between parity and tooth loss in a population with many high parity women. Contributions of age, reproductive and socioeconomic parameters, and oral health practices were considered.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This was a cross-sectional study involving 612 Hausa women of all parity levels aged 13-65 years. Women with ≥5 children were considered high parity. Sociodemographic status and oral health practices were collected using a structured interviewer-administered questionnaire. All teeth present, (excluding third molars) and missing teeth were noted, with inquiries regarding tooth loss etiology. Associations with tooth loss were evaluated through correlations, ANOVA, post hoc analyses and Student's t tests. Effect sizes were used to interpret the magnitude of differences. Multiple regression (negative binomial model) was used to investigate predictors of tooth loss.

RESULTS

Hausa women had a low prevalence of tooth loss, despite poor oral hygiene, and limited dental care. Older, middle SES, and higher parity women experienced significantly more tooth loss. Additionally, increased duration of reproductively active years was significantly related to fewer remaining teeth.

CONCLUSION

Higher parity was related to greater tooth loss in Hausa women. Women with ≥5 children experienced more loss than lower parity age mates.

An accuracy study of the clinical diagnosis of periodontitis in pregnant women

BACKGROUND

There exists a diverse range of criteria used in epidemiological studies for the diagnosis of periodontitis. The results from these studies should be evaluated with consideration to the diagnostic criteria used, and this may account for differences between studies especially in some population groups such as pregnant females. The objective is to evaluate the diagnostic criteria used in a variety of epidemiologic studies of periodontitis in pregnant females.

METHODS

An accuracy study with cross-sectional design was performed out from a database of 671 pregnant females, using six different sets of criteria for the diagnosis of periodontitis. Women were classified for periodontitis, as follows: Center for Disease Control and Prevention/American Academy of Periodontology (CDC/AAP, 2012 criterion), the gold standard, Gomes-Filho et al.(2018) criterion, Albandar et al.(2007) criterion, Bassani et al.(2007) criterion, López et al.(2002) criterion, and Nesse et al.(2008) criterion. For comparison amongst the gold standard and the other criteria, sensitivity, specificity, predictive values, and likelihood ratio were determined.

RESULTS

The frequency of periodontitis ranged from 25.0% to 90.2%. The Bassani et al. (2007) criterion was found to be more sensitive among the studies, and thus more suitable for diagnostic screening studies. Gomes-Filho et al.(2018), Albandar et al. (2007), López et al. (2002), and Nesse et al. (2008) criteria were considered more specific, which makes them more useful for studies of periodontitis with the aim of using diagnosis for confirmation of disease.

CONCLUSIONS

A variation in the occurrence of periodontitis was observed. The criterion must be chosen according to the research aims and population characteristics.

Effectiveness of a family-centered behavioral and educational counselling approach to improve periodontal health of pregnant women: a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Poor oral hygiene and high hormone levels during pregnancy can lead to a deterioration in periodontal health. This study assessed the effectiveness of a family-centered behavioral and educational counselling program on improving the periodontal health of women during pregnancy and postpartum.

METHODS

A randomized controlled trial was conducted among pregnant women (10th-22nd gestational week) and their husbands. Participating families were randomized into test and control groups. Intervention in the test group included explanation of oral health education (OHE) pamphlets, oral hygiene instruction, individualized feedback, and proposed solutions to overcome barriers in self-care. Reinforcements were implemented in the 3rd trimester of pregnancy and six months postpartum. In the control group, only OHE pamphlets were distributed. The assessed outcomes were bleeding on probing (BOP), periodontal pocket (Poc), loss of clinical attachment (LoA), and Visible Plaque Index (VPI). The data collection was carried out at baseline (T₀), in the 32nd gestational week (T₁), and 12 months postpartum (T₂).

RESULTS

Altogether 589 pregnant women were recruited, and 369 attended all three visits (test:188; control:181). In the test group, the mean VPI score at T₀ was 0.19, which decreased to 0.14 at T₁ and 0.15 at T₂. In the control group, the mean VPI decreased from 0.19 at T₀ to 0.16 at T₁, but increased to 0.22 at T₂. A main effect of time and intervention and an interaction between time and intervention were detected (all p < 0.05), indicating that the intervention effect differed between T₁ and T₂. The test group showed a significantly greater decrease over time than the control group did. Similarly, the mean BOP% decreased more significantly over time in the test group (T₀:57%, T₁:46%, T₂:35%) than in the control group (T₀:58%, T₁:52%, T₂:46%). For Poc and LoA, there were improvements in both study groups at 12 months postpartum, compared with during pregnancy (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Providing family-centered, behavioral, and educational counselling to pregnant women at an early stage of pregnancy and with reinforcements can improve their oral hygiene and reduce gingival inflammation. The effect can be sustained over an extended period and is greater than that of distributing oral health leaflets alone.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Clinicaltrials.gov , #NCT02937194. Registered 18 October 2016. Retrospectively registered, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02937194?cond=Family-centered+oral+health+promotion+for+new+parents+and+their+infants&draw=2&rank=1.

Parity and Number of Teeth in Japanese Women: Results from the Japan Nurses' Health Study

Background: Parity is thought to be associated with a decreased number of teeth present in women. However, educational level and social status, which are particularly significant risk factors for loss of teeth, have been heterogeneous in previous observations. This cross-sectional survey aimed to clarify the associations of parity with the risk of having <20 teeth in Japanese female nurses participating in the Japan Nurses' Health Study (JNHS). Methods: In the third follow-up questionnaire of the JNHS, 11,299 women aged 27-82 years participated in this study. The number of participants according to age range was 7,225 (63.9%) aged <50 years and 4,074 (36.1%) aged ≥50 years. Information on parity and risk factors for loss of teeth was collected through a baseline questionnaire and then a follow-up questionnaire. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to calculate the adjusted odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) of having <20 teeth according to parity category. Results: Participants ≥50 years who had experienced three or more deliveries had a significantly higher risk of having <20 teeth than those who had not experienced delivery (OR = 1.59, 95% CI = 1.14-2.20), although this finding was not observed in participants <50 years. In addition to parity, age and current smoking may be independent risk factors for having <20 teeth in Japanese nurses. Conclusions: Higher-parity female nurses ≥50 years may be more likely to lose teeth than those who have not experienced delivery.

Effect of a health-education program using motivational interviewing on oral health behavior and self-efficacy in pregnant women: a randomized controlled trial

Oral health problems are common among pregnant women. The objective of this study was to examine the effectiveness of motivational interviewing (MI) as a behavior-change technique to enhance self-efficacy and oral health among pregnant women. A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 112 pregnant Iranian women. Women in the intervention group received an education program on oral health using MI during two face-to-face sessions, along with routine health education (two 1-h lectures on oral health changes and needs during pregnancy presented as a lecture by an oral health technician over a 2-wk period). Those in the control group received two 1-h lectures on oral health changes and needs during pregnancy. Oral health behaviors, oral health self-efficacy, and general self-efficacy, were assessed, along with gingival and dental health from baseline to the 3-month follow-up. Analysis of covariance was used to determine differences between intervention and control groups. Scores for both general and specific self-efficacy and for healthy behaviors increased in the intervention group, whereas there was no significant change within controls from baseline to follow-up. Between-group analyses also indicated a significant difference in the scores for self-efficacy and behavior favoring the intervention group. Scores on the gingival inflammation index decreased, as did the number of decayed teeth in the intervention group relative to the control group. The number of filled teeth increased significantly in the intervention group. Health education interventions using MI techniques may help to improve oral health-related self-efficacy and behaviors among pregnant women.

Periodontal status of women with excessive gestational weight gain and the association with their newborns' health

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to assess the association between high gestational weight gain and systemic and periodontal status of women between the 32nd and 36th gestational weeks of pregnancy (T1) and after delivery (T2), and the association of these factors with newborns' health.

METHODS

The sample was divided into excessive gestational weight gain (GE = 25) and normal gestational weight gain (GN = 25) and was evaluated regarding: (i) socio-economic status; (ii) systemic and periodontal status; and (iii) newborns' health. The results were analysed using the Mann-Whitney U-test, the t-test, the Friedman test, analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Cochran's Q test (P < 0.05).

RESULTS

Women with GE had lower household income (P = 0.010) and higher body mass index (BMI) at both T1 and T2. The prevalence of hypertension at T1 was higher in women with GE, but the condition resolved post-delivery (P = 0.001). Worsening in oral hygiene was observed at T2 in both groups (P < 0.001). Sixty-eight percent of women with GE and 16% of women with GN had periodontitis at T1, and 52% and 12%, respectively, had periodontitis at T2. In women with GE, the BMI of newborns was higher (P = 0.031).

CONCLUSIONS

Women with high gestational weight gain also showed a high prevalence of hypertension and periodontitis during pregnancy, and persistent periodontitis after delivery. High gestational weight gain was related to high BMI of newborns.

Pregnancy, postpartum and parity: Resilience and vulnerability in brain health and disease

Risk and resilience in brain health and disease can be influenced by a variety of factors. While there is a growing appreciation to consider sex as one of these factors, far less attention has been paid to sex-specific variables that may differentially impact females such as pregnancy and reproductive history. In this review, we focus on nervous system disorders which show a female bias and for which there is data from basic research and clinical studies pointing to modification in disease risk and progression during pregnancy, postpartum and/or as a result of parity: multiple sclerosis (MS), depression, stroke, and Alzheimer's disease (AD). In doing so, we join others (Shors, 2016; Galea et al., 2018a) in aiming to illustrate the importance of looking beyond sex in neuroscience research.

Reproductive life histories influence cariogenesis: Exploring sex-specific variation in dental caries and survivorship in the human past

OBJECTIVES

Differences in dental caries prevalence between males and females is considered a reflection of diet. However, recent syntheses argue that sex-specific variation in dental caries prevalence also reflects changes in the oral cavity attributable to variation in reproductive life histories. This study explores sex-specific variation in carious lesions using a life history perspective to understand if differences in reproductive ecology influence this process.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Survival probability between 860 males and females from the Terry Collection was compared using carious lesion manifestation (absent, crown presence, root/cemento-enamel junction [CEJ] presence) and sex as covariates and age as a time series variable. A four-way multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) comparing carious lesion type by sex, age, and periodontal disease presence was used to evaluate interaction between these variables.

RESULTS

Individuals with carious lesions have greater survivorship than those without lesions. Males and females with crown lesions do not differ in survivorship from individuals without carious lesions. Females with root/CEJ lesions are characterized by the highest survivorship. A significant interaction was found for root/CEJ carious lesions by age, sex, and periodontal disease presence. Root/CEJ lesion formation in older males was not dependent upon periodontal disease presence, though dependence between these variables characterizes postmenopausal females.

CONCLUSION

Sex-specific variation in crown lesions is not associated with reproductive life histories and likely reflects diet. By contrast, root/CEJ lesions form through pathways attributable to reproductive life histories, particularly age-induced periodontal disease in females. These results suggest the formation of carious lesions is complex, and in some cases, rooted in reproductive life histories.

Is parity a cause of tooth loss? Perceptions of northern Nigerian Hausa women

BACKGROUND

Reproduction affects the general health of women, especially when parity is high. The relationship between parity and oral health is not as clear, although it is a widespread customary belief that pregnancy results in tooth loss. Parity has been associated with tooth loss in some populations, but not in others. It is important to understand the perceptions of women regarding the association between parity and tooth loss as these beliefs may influence health behaviors during the reproductive years.

AIM

To explore the views of Hausa women regarding the link between parity and tooth loss.

METHODS

Qualitative data were collected through a grounded theory approach with focus group discussions (FGDs) of high and low parity Hausa women (n = 33) in northern Nigeria. Responses were elicited on the causes of tooth loss, effects of tooth loss on women's quality of life, issues of parity and tooth loss, and cultural beliefs about parity and tooth loss. The data were analyzed thematically using ATLAS-ti.

RESULTS

Respondents associated tooth loss with vomiting during labor, a condition termed 'payar baka'. Poor oral hygiene, excessive consumption of refined carbohydrates, tooth worm, cancer and ageing were also believed to cause tooth loss. The greatest impacts of tooth loss on the lives of the respondents were esthetic and masticatory changes.

CONCLUSION

Respondents perceived that parity is indirectly linked to tooth loss, as reflected in their views on the association between vomiting during labor and tooth loss.

Oral care in pregnancy

Pregnant women are susceptible to a wide range of oral health conditions that could be harmful to their own health and the future of their baby. There are many myths about the safety of dental care during pregnancy. As a result, pregnant women receive less dental care than when they are not pregnant. In our review, we tried to emphasize the importance and safety of routine dental care for pregnant women.

Process evaluation of the midwifery initiated oral health-dental service program: perceptions of pregnant women

BACKGROUND

Pregnant women in Australia seldom seek dental care and are unaware of its importance. To address these gaps the midwifery-initiated oral health dental service (MIOH-DS) program was comprehensive trialled and found effective. The aim of this study was to undertake a process evaluation of the MIOH-DS using the perspectives of pregnant women who participated in the trial.

METHODS

A qualitative research design was utilized, whereby content analysis was undertaken on data from 11 semi-structured interviews with women who participated in the program.

RESULTS

All participants were receptive of the MIOH-DS intervention, and found it to be an acceptable intervention that met their needs, and encouraged future positive oral health practices and health-seeking behaviours. They expressed that midwives were an appropriate professional to conduct oral health assessments, education and referrals to affordable dental services. Although some participants were initially apprehensive towards receiving treatment during pregnancy, dental staff members were able to appropriately educate and reassure them during treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

The MIOH-DS represents a promising and acceptable intervention strategy for pregnant women to promote their oral health. Findings merit further investigation on whether positive outcomes achieved can be sustained when implemented in other national or international settings similar to the study setting.