Oral Health Problems in Pregnant Women attending Selected Tertiary Hospitals of Bangladesh

Abstract

Background: Oral health problems are common during pregnancy and can adversely affect overall health and quality of life (QoL). This study aimed to assess the prevalence and types of oral health issues among pregnant women in Bangladesh and to explore their association with demographic factors. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 206 pregnant women attending ante-natal checkup at two tertiary level hospitals. Data were collected through dental examinations and structured interviews. Demographic characteristics, oral health status and dental care-seeking behavior were analyzed. Associations between oral health problems and demographic variables were assessed using chi-square tests. Results: The mean age of participants was 25.5 ± 5.3 years. Most women were housewives (86.9%) and had education up to higher secondary level (74.3%). Overall, 69.3% had at least one oral health problem. The most common issues were tooth sensitivity (65%), tooth decay (53.4%), swollen gums (41.3%), painful or reddish gums (37.4%), gum bleeding (33.4%) and dental caries (26.7%). Gum bleeding was significantly associated with education level (p =0.016) and occupation (p =0.03) but not with age. Only 17.9% of participants visited professional dentists during pregnancy, while 21.7% reported that oral health issues affected their overall health or eating habits. Conclusions: A high proportion of pregnant women in Bangladesh experiences oral health problems, although the majority do not seek professional dental care during their pregnancies. Educational interventions and the integration of oral health services into antenatal care are essential to improve maternal oral health and preventing oral health complications.

Update Dent. Coll. j: 2026; 16(1): 1-4