Author ORCID Identifier
0009-0001-2602-4364
Date of Award
Summer 8-7-2024
Degree Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Public Health (MPH)
Department
Public Health
First Advisor
Dr. Ike Okosun
Second Advisor
Yomi Bello
Abstract
Introduction: Maternal oral health is crucial for the well-being of both the growing child and the pregnant mother. Poor oral health can result in dental emergencies, greater risk of low-birth-weight babies, and pre-eclampsia. However, there is limited understanding of the relationship between pregnancy and the utilization of dental healthcare services by women.
Aim: This study compares the use of dental healthcare services by pregnant and non-pregnant women.
Methods: National Health and Examination Survey demographic and oral health data from 2013-2018 were utilized. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was conducted to establish the relationship between pregnancy and the utilization of dental healthcare services, while controlling for confounding factors.
Results: The analysis revealed that pregnant women were 2.281 times more likely to not to use dental healthcare services compared to non-pregnant women. Additionally, black pregnant women were 1.046 times more likely to not visit the dentist compared to women of other racial/ethnic groups. Widowed pregnant women were 1.376 times more likely to not seek dental healthcare services, while separated women were 1.18 times more likely not to use dental services. Women living with their partner were 1.143 times more likely not to utilize dental healthcare services. Other factors associated with lower dental healthcare services use included having three or more children under the age of 5 years (OR=1.50) and an annual income of less than $20,000 (OR=5.00), after adjusting for other independent variables.
Conclusion: The study's results call for developing and targeting public health messages regarding dental health services among pregnant women. These messages should be race-specific and encourage regular use of dental services.
Recommended Citation
Hall, Tenecia, "Identifying And Assessing The Barriers To Maternal Oral Health Utilization." Thesis, Georgia State University, 2024.
https://scholarworks.gsu.edu/iph_theses/821
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