ABSTRACT
INTRODUCTION: Periodontitis is an inflammatory disease of gingiva and its supporting structures and is known to cause systemic infection which has adverse effect on pregnancy outcomes, such as preterm birth, preeclampsia, or miscarriage, which have been linked to maternal periodontitis. AIM: Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the knowledge and awareness regarding the association of periodontitis and adverse pregnancy outcomes among the gynecologists practicing in Hubli-Dharwad city. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study involved a survey for 50 practicing gynecologists in Hubli-Dharwad city, a pretested close-ended questionnaire was distributed comprising 10 questions on oral health for expectant mothers, and thus, their knowledge and awareness levels were assessed. RESULTS: The results showed that majority of gynecologists agreed importance of maintaining good general health during pregnancy and supported that providing dental treatment during pregnancy improved the pregnancy outcomes. CONCLUSION: However, practical implementation and referring patients to dentists were less. The gynecologists were aware of the facts but failed to execute at the clinical level. Thus, this bilateral interdisciplinary protocol can thus reduce the incidence of maternal and neonatal complications.
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: The use of dental implants as a prosthetic treatment modality for partially edentulous or completely edentulous patients is increased more commonly ever since the concept of osseointegration has been accepted. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study is to assess the awareness, knowledge, attitude, and acceptance of dental implants as a treatment modality among patients visiting SDM Dental College, Dharwad. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 500 patients visiting SDM College of Dental Sciences and Hospital (SDMCDSH), Dharwad, using a self-explanatory questionnaire. RESULTS: A total of 500 individuals participated in the survey. The results of this survey indicate that 93.4% of the patients knew about dental implants, and for majority of them, the major source of information was through their dentist followed by relatives and friends and electronic media. About 60.4% patients disapproved the removable prosthesis as an option for the replacement of missing teeth. 77.2% patients expressed that they could not afford for the dental implant treatment. The major deterioration for this treatment was related to the cost in 80.4% patients, surgical procedure in 11.6% patients, and a long treatment time in 5.6% patients. While 60.4% patients felt that dental implants being expensive, is the treatment option only for the rich. CONCLUSION: The results of this survey showed that majority of the patients visiting SDMCDSH, Dharwad, were aware about dental implants as a treatment modality for the replacement of missing teeth. Although the attitude was positive and they did accept dental implants as a treatment option, the treatment cost mainly was the major reason to take a back step.
