Responsibility for oral health: the perception of pregnant women

ABSTRACT Objective To analyze the perception of pregnant women regarding responsibility for their oral health. Methods This was a cross-sectional, quantitative study based on document analysis of 1,485 medical records of pregnant women from a municipality in the interior of São Paulo, Brazil. The variables analyzed were age, education level, income, marital status, and main complaint. The outcomes included self-perception, responsibility for oral health, and oral hygiene habits. Statistical association tests were applied (p<0.05). Results Among the 1,485 pregnant women, 42.76% (n=635) were up to 27 years old; 85.22% (n=1,265) had completed high school; 34.07% (n=506) had an income of up to two minimum wages; and 54.95% (n=727) were married. Most sought dental care for routine treatment or prevention (46.80%), which was associated with age (p<0.0001). The majority perceived themselves as responsible for their oral health (53.13%) and sought health services for routine or preventive procedures (p=0.0003). A higher education level was associated with greater satisfaction with oral health (p=0.0117). In total, 88% reported brushing their teeth twice a day, but 58.92% never or rarely used dental floss. Conclusion The education level of pregnant women influences their health literacy, decision-making, and self-perception of oral health. While nearly all reported brushing their teeth, few used dental floss.