Effects of an Oral Health Management Program During Pregnancy: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Health Education
• Periodontology

Background:

• Poor oral health is a concern during pregnancy.
• Health Belief Model interventions can influence health behaviors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess a Health Belief Model-based oral health program's impact on pregnant women.
• Evaluate effects on self-efficacy, behaviors, and periodontal health.

Main Methods:

• Randomized controlled trial with 65 pregnant women.
• Intervention group received comprehensive education and follow-up; control group received basic education.
• Measured self-efficacy, oral health behaviors, gingival index, and plaque index at baseline, post-intervention, and 2-month follow-up.

Main Results:

• Intervention group showed significant increases in self-efficacy (p < 0.001) and improved oral health behaviors (p < 0.05).
• Significant reductions in gingival index (p = 0.021) and plaque index (p = 0.001) were observed post-intervention.
• Plaque index remained significantly lower at 2-month follow-up (p < 0.001).

Conclusions:

• The Health Belief Model program is an effective strategy for enhancing oral health in pregnant women.
• The intervention successfully promoted self-efficacy and positive oral health behaviors.