[Motivational sensitivity of pregnant women for oral hygiene and use of fluoride tablets].

Abstract

200 pregnant women (group 1) attending a four-week cure in a home, 50 pregnant dental office patients (group 2), and 50 non-pregnant patients of the same age were included in this study. The preventive care program (information on oral hygiene, fluoridation and healthy nutrition, instructions and training) showed its greatest effect in the women of group 1, reflected in a reduction in OHI and GPM index and in an improved health awareness. All of the probands of group 1 who had planned during pregnancy to use fluoride tablets for their babies, put this plan into effect. In group 2 this percentage was only 46%. Pregnancy is a phase of increased motivational sensitivity and this should be exploited by doctors and dentists in terms of preventive programs for individuals and groups.