Oral Hygiene Status & Preterm Birth in Pregnant Women: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Oral hygiene has emerged as a potential risk factor for adverse pregnancy outcomes, including preterm birth. This study aimed to examine the association between oral hygiene status and preterm birth, and to assess oral hygiene practices and oral health status among postpartum women attending a tertiary care hospital in Peshawar, Pakistan.

Methodology: An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted among 400 postpartum women aged 18–40 years in the gynecology ward of Khyber Teaching Hospital, Peshawar. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire assessing demographics, oral hygiene practices, dental care utilization, and oral health conditions. The Oral Hygiene Index-Simplified (OHI-S) was used for objective assessment. Chi-square tests were employed to explore associations between oral hygiene status and preterm birth.

Results: Only 17% of participants reported brushing twice daily, while 41.5% brushed once daily. Although 71% reported no dental issues, others experienced gingivitis (12%), sensitivity (6%), tooth pain (4%), cavities (5%), or weak teeth (2%). Poor oral hygiene (OHI-S) was significantly more prevalent in the preterm birth group (59%) compared to the full-term group (36.5%) (p < 0.005). Only 5% of preterm mothers had good oral hygiene, versus 24.5% of full-term mothers. Debris scores were also higher among the preterm group. Overall, 47.8% of women exhibited poor oral hygiene.

Conclusion: Poor oral hygiene was significantly associated with preterm birth. The findings underscore the urgent need for accessible oral health education and preventive dental care services tailored for pregnant women in low-resource settings.