Associated Factors for Tooth Loss in the Postpartum Women in Vojvodina

Background: Pregnancy increases the risk of developing oral diseases and can lead to tooth loss. The aim of our study is to determine the influence of demographic factors, social status, attitudes, habits, and behaviors related to diet and oral hygiene, that may result in tooth loss in postpartum women. Methods: This cross-sectional survey was conducted in General Hospitals and Clinics for gynecology and obstetrics in the territory of the Autonomous Province of Vojvodina. Data on attitudes, habits and behaviors related to diet and oral hygiene that may result in tooth loss were obtained by surveying postpartum women on the day of discharge. Univariate and multivariate logistic analysis was used to study the relationship between associated factors and the tooth loss using CR and a 95% confidence interval. Values p <0.05. was considered statistically significant. Results: Our study included 4310 mothers with an average age of 27.31 years. Based on multivariate regression analysis, higher tooth loss was observed in: mothers over the age of 35 (CI=1.029-1.660; p=0.028), with low or no education (CI=1.388 -2.258; p<0.001), living alone (CI=1.126-3.728; p=0.019), who are of poor social status (CI=1.300-2,005; p<0.001), brush teeth for less than 2 minutes (CI=1.006-1.575; p=0.044),visit a dentist for dental treatment (CI=1.367-2.131; p<0.001), and consume cigarettes (CI=1.015-1.685; p=0.038). Conclusions: Our research has shown that sociodemographic factors, habits, attitudes and behaviors of postpartum women regarding oral hygiene and nutrition are directly related to tooth loss and can serve as a platform for adoption of special oral health promotion programs.