Knowledge and attitudes of obstetricians regarding oral health during pregnancy in a city in the south of Minas Gerais

• DOI: 10.22533/at.ed.159332303014

• Palavras-chave: Pregnant women; Knowledge; Doctors; Dentistry.

• Keywords: Pregnant women; Knowledge; Doctors; Dentistry.

• Abstract:

  Introduction: The gestational period is characterized by hormonal changes that promote dental changes. Prenatal follow-up is relevant in tracking dental diseases, however there is a very low number of referrals for dental evaluation during pregnancy. Objective: To analyze the knowledge of obstetricians regarding oral health during pregnancy in a city in the south of Minas Gerais. Methods: Cross-sectional, analytical research, with a sample of 22 obstetricians. A sample characterization questionnaire was applied, addressing gender, age, training time and performance of these professionals. Regarding the topic, there were specific questions about dental issues during pregnancy. Data were analyzed using the Chi - square test. Results: The mean age of the participants was 50.09 years (SD: 11.45), the length of obstetric training was 23.63 years (SD: 11.85) and the division by sex revealed equality between them. About the activities carried out, 57% declared private, private and public prenatal care. With regard to dental guidance during medical residency, 72.72% of participants said they did not receive it, however 54.54% stated that they referred pregnant women for dental evaluation. Addressing specific issues of obstetric dentistry, 77.27% declared that there was no oral procedure contraindicated during pregnancy, the same percentage that associated dental pathologies with fetal complications. All participants reported greater susceptibility to gingivitis during pregnancy and 68.18% declared never having taken fluoride supplementation. Conclusion: The teaching of dental complications during pregnancy during medical residency in gynecology and obstetrics is a current need. The knowledge of the professionals approached was superior to that reported in the literature.