Șerban Simona Lavinia, Mihaela Moscu Puisoru, Catalina Iulia Saveanu, Sorana Nicoleta Rosu
ABSTRACT
Aim of the study Oral health during pregnancy is essential for maternal and fetal outcomes; however, disparities in oral health knowledge and hygiene practices may exist between rural and urban populations. To assess oral health awareness, knowledge, and hygiene behaviors among pregnant women and to identify rural–urban differences. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 49 pregnant women hospitalized in obstetrics and gynecology units. Data were collected using a 30-item structured questionnaire addressing oral health knowledge, practices, dietary habits, and access to dental care. Comparisons between rural and urban participants were performed using Fisher’s exact test (p < 0.05). Results: Although awareness of the importance of oral health during pregnancy was high in both groups, urban women reported significantly higher use of dentist-recommended brushing techniques (79.2% vs. 24.0%, p < 0.001), dental floss (45.8% vs. 8.0%, p = 0.004), and better self-perceived oral hygiene (91.7% vs. 48.0%, p = 0.001). Rural participants showed lower dental service utilization despite high awareness levels. Pregnancy-related nausea negatively affected oral hygiene routines in both groups. Conclusions: Despite high awareness, significant gaps between knowledge and practice persist, particularly among rural pregnant women, highlighting the need for integrated oral health education within prenatal care.
DOI : 10.62610/RJOR.2025.4.17.2
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