Maternal Oral Health: Determinants of Hygiene Material Preference among Pregnant Women at EKSUTH, Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria

Background: Maternal oral health is a vital yet underexplored aspect of prenatal care, particularly in resource-limited settings like Nigeria, where hygiene material preferences can influence health outcomes. Objective: This study examined the determinants of oral hygiene material preferences among pregnant women attending antenatal care at Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital (EKSUTH), Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria, focusing on changes in usage across trimesters and the factors driving these preferences. Methods: Using a descriptive survey design, data were collected from 180 pregnant women via a structured questionnaire, analyzing sociodemographic characteristics, types of oral hygiene materials (e.g., toothpaste, toothbrushes, mouthwash, dental floss, chewing sticks), and reasons for changes during pregnancy. Results: Findings revealed a mean age of 31.8 years, with most respondents being married (82.8%) and educated at the tertiary level (55.0%). Usage of fluoridated toothpaste and medium brushes decreased in the first trimester, while minty/herbal pastes and natural mouthwashes increased, reflecting trimester-specific shifts. Taste (40.0-41.7%) and hypersalivation (20.0-31.7%) were primary reasons for changing toothpaste, while bleeding gums (44.6-55.1%) drove toothbrush changes. Texture, taste, and color emerged assignificant influencers across materials, alongside family influence, cost, and brand. Conclusion: These findings highlight the interplay of sensory preferences, physiological changes, and socioeconomic factors in shaping oral hygiene practices during pregnancy. The study recommends tailored dental education and product development to address trimesterspecific needs, contributing to improved maternal oral health interventions in Nigeria and similar low- and middle-income contexts.