Obstetric provider approach to perinatal oral health. (3rd May 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Wilson, Eline H.; Farrell, Chris; Zielinski, Ruth E.; Gonik, Bernard
• Is Part Of: Journal of maternal-fetal & neonatal medicine. Volume 30:Number 9(2017)
• Page Start: 1089
• Page End: 1091
• Publication Date: 2017-05-03
• Subjects: Certified nurse midwife -- Michigan -- obstetrician -- prenatal care; Obstetrics -- Periodicals; Perinatology -- Periodicals; Infants (Newborn) -- Diseases -- Periodicals; Neonatology -- Periodicals; 618.2
• DOI: 10.1080/14767058.2016.1204291
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1476-7058

Abstract

Abstract: Objective : To examine the practices and attitudes of obstetric providers in the state of Michigan on their approach to perinatal oral health. Methods : An online survey was distributed using health care provider databases in the state of Michigan. Descriptive statistics were tabulated and Fisher's Exact Test was used for categorical variables. Results : There were 146 respondents, 80 obstetrician-gynecologist (OB/GYN) and 66 certified nurse midwife (CNM) providers. Eighty percent acknowledged that perinatal oral health is an important consideration for optimal prenatal care, while only 53% reported having questions specific to oral health on their intake documents. Only 35% discussed oral health, 29% performed an oral cavity exam and 42% recommended oral health assessment by a dentist. CNMs were more likely than OB/GYNs to discuss the importance of oral health (48% versus 24%, ( p <.05)) and recommend a formal dental assessment (61% versus 26% ( p <.05)). These findings demonstrate a dichotomy of care in that obstetric providers recognize the importance of oral health care in pregnancy, but only a minority routinely incorporates these surveillance practices. Conclusion : These data highlight a gap in obstetric services that needs attention through specific educational initiatives and further research endeavors that address health care provider practice and patient barriers.