MDA Dentists and Pregnant Patients: A Survey of Attitudes and Practice

Abstract

Objectives There are dental and medical consensus statements stating oral health care is safe throughout pregnancy. This survey seeks to assess the attitudes and practice of Michigan Dental Association dentists regarding the oral health and treatment of pregnant patients as a preliminary assessment to facilitate state perinatal oral health initiatives. Methods Surveys were sent to all 4,494 Michigan Dental Association (MDA) members via the Michigan Dental Association List Serv between July and September of 2013 using an online survey instrument. There were 347 respondents, a response rate of 7.72 percent. Results Of the respondents, 91 percent strongly agree that oral health care is an important part of prenatal care, but only 37 percent indicate they provide restorative procedures and periodontal scaling and root planning procedures throughout all stages of pregnancy. Conclusions MDA dentists believe oral health care is important for pregnant patients. There is a need to provide continuing education in the management of pregnant patients.