Women who are older and pregnant receive better dental care compared to women who are younger and pregnant, according to a recent study.
The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey recently conducted a study of 897 pregnant women and 3,971 nonpregnant women ages 15 through 44 from 1999 to 2004.
The results showed that women ages 35 to 44 who were pregnant reported having very good or good mouth and teeth condition. The number was a much higher percentage compared to the pregnant women ages 15 to 24. Also, nonpregnant women ages 15 to 24 had much better oral health compared to pregnant women ages 35 to 44.
The researchers determined that the results indicated the need to improve dental service among US women of childbearing age, particularly among younger pregnant women who come from low-income families or have a low education level. Prenatal visits may be used as a way to encourage pregnant women to seek the dental care they require during pregnancy.
The goal of this study was to assess and compare national estimates on self-reported oral health conditions and dental visits among pregnant and nonpregnant women of childbearing age.
