Assessment of Knowledge and Attitude of Expectant Mothers Regarding Effect of Their Oral Health and Its Influence on the Infant Oral Health

INTRODUCTION: Good oral health during pregnancy and infancy is important for the overall health and well-being of mother and child, respectively. AIM: To assess the knowledge and attitude of expectant mothers regarding the effect of their oral health and its influence on infant oral health. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted among expectant mothers. They were randomly selected from those reporting to the Department of Gynecology in Government and Private Hospitals in Durg, Chhattisgarh. A total of 124 closed-ended, self-administered questionnaire were filled by participants, which had 21 items addressing the knowledge and attitude of expectant mothers regarding their oral health and oral hygiene practices; the transmission of bacteria from mother to child; cariogenic food consumption; effect of periodontal disease on infant's teeth and safe trimester for dental treatment. Data were tabulated and subjected to statistical analysis. RESULTS: Significant differences were found in expectant mothers’ knowledge and attitude based on their age (p = 0.02, 0.07), education level (p = 0.001, 0.95), trimester (p = 0.83, 0.43), and number of pregnancies (p = 0.05, 0.10), respectively. CONCLUSION: The knowledge related to the oral health of pregnant women during pregnancy was found to be low and needs to be improved. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Execution of educational programs along with other healthcare professionals to motivate expectant mothers. HOW TO CITE THIS ARTICLE: Pattanshetti K, Kothari HP, Tiwari J, et al. Assessment of Knowledge and Attitude of Expectant Mothers Regarding Effect of Their Oral Health and Its Influence on the Infant Oral Health. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2020;13(5):471–475.