The Prevalence and Severity of Dental Caries Among Pregnant Women in the State of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

AIM

To assess in a pilot study the prevalence and severity of dental caries among pregnant women compared to non-pregnant women in the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A cross-sectional, observational study was conducted. Data collection consisted of clinical examinations and general questionnaires concerning oral hygiene habits and recent dental visits of pregnant and non-pregnant women. Prevalence and severity of caries was determined by the CAST index and the CAST severity score. Permission for this study was granted by the National Research Ethics Commission of Brazil. Written informed consent was obtained from all participants.

RESULTS

In total, 67 pregnant women were included (mean age (SD) 25.5 ± 5.4 years) and 79 non-pregnant women (26.0 ± 5.3 years). Mean number of teeth with untreated caries (CAST 4-7) among pregnant women was significantly lower (1.2 ± 1.8) compared to non-pregnant women (2.7 ± 4.0; Mann-Whitney test, p = 0.027). In both groups, 40-60% were in need of curative treatment. There was no significant difference between the two groups in frequency of dental visits (p > 0.05), but pregnant women brushed their teeth more often (Mann-Whitney test, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Pregnant women in the state of Rio de Janeiro have fewer untreated caries and less severe dental caries compared to non-pregnant women. Still, half of all women in this study are in need of curative treatment for at least one tooth. Effective preventive programs should therefore be developed to stimulate preventive oral care among all women.

Parental acceptance of silver fluoride as a treatment option for carious lesions among South African children with special health care needs

Providing dental care for children with neurological special health care needs, including Down syndrome, Cerebral palsy and Autism spectrum disorders, is challenging. They often require repeat exposure to sedation or general anaesthesia for routine dental care. 51 parents of children with special needs completed a questionnaire regarding the acceptance of Silver Fluoride as a treatment option.

Background

Silver Diamine Fluoride has become popular as a minimally invasive treatment option for providing oral health care to young or uncooperative children. Silver Fluoride (SF) is a newer development with similar but improved properties. The aim was to determine the acceptance of SDF/SF as treatment option for Children with Special Health Care Needs (CSHCN), including Down Syndrome, Autism Spectrum Disorder and Cerebral Palsy.

Methods

51 Parents of CSHCN completed a questionnaire on the overall acceptance of SF; aesthetic concerns related to the location of application; the use of SDF as an alternative to general anesthesia; and the composition of SF.

Results

The use of SF on posterior teeth were more acceptable (70.59%) as opposed to its application to anterior teeth (50.98%). Parents generally agreed/ strongly agreed to the use of SF to reduce infection and pain (82%); to avoid treatment under GA (26.70%); and to avoid an injection (78%). 64% of parents indicated their agreement in using SF because it has a reduced cost when compared to a conventional restoration. Majority of parents were in agreement to use SF even if it contains Fluoride (84%) and Silver (78%).

Conclusion

The use of SF, as treatment option for caries, was well accepted by South African parents of CSHCN. Shared decision making should be applied when considering SF as treatment option for CSHCN.