Factors affecting utilization of dental services during pregnancy.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study is to identify and evaluate factors affecting utilization of dental services during pregnancy.
METHODS: Participants in this cross-sectional study were mothers visiting a community health center for their infants'/toddlers' immunization. Data were collected through a questionnaire about demographics, oral health knowledge, attitude, and practices, as well as barriers to dental visits during pregnancy. Mean (SD) and frequencies were used for data description. Different factors were analyzed as predictors for utilization of dental services using multiple logistic regression analysis.
RESULTS: In total, 423 mothers completed the study. Mean (SD) age at delivery was 29.5 (5.3) years. Almost all participants brushed their teeth at least once daily with toothpaste. During pregnancy, 19.2% of mothers reported difficulties with brushing, and 25% had dental/periodontal problems. Half of the participants had a dental visit during pregnancy; 93% were for dental checkups, 80.5% received preventive care, and 28.8% received dental/periodontal treatments. Canadian-born women were 48% more likely to visit the dentist during pregnancy compared with non-Canadian counterparts (P = 0.048). Level of education, dental insurance, and household income were also positively associated with usage (P <0.001). Mothers with more knowledge about possible connections between oral health and pregnancy and those who visited the dentist every 6 months had better odds of visiting the dentist during pregnancy (P <0.001).
CONCLUSION: Three major factors predicting the utilization of dental services during pregnancy were: 1) perceived need, 2) habit of regular dental visits, and 3) access to dental services.