Oral hygiene and salivary IgA in relation to gingival condition in pregnant women

Abstract

Pregnancy is a physiological state that causes changes in many parts of the body, including the oral cavity. Gingivitis has been reported to be the most common oral manifestation during pregnancy, most likely due to an exaggerated inflammatory response to the dental plaque. This study aims to investigate oral hygiene and salivary IgA concerning gingival conditions in pregnant women. In this study, the total sample included was 80 women. The study group consisted of 40 pregnant women: 20 females in the first and 20 in the third trimester, while the control group included 40 non-pregnant women. Between 9 and 11 a.m., unstimulated saliva was collected. The rate of salivary flow and concentration of salivary immunoglobulin A were measured. Dental plaque, calculus and gingivitis were assessed. Results demonstrated that plaque, calculus and gingival indices were higher in a pregnant group, with significant differences in plaque index only. In contrast, salivary flow rate was lower in pregnant women with no significant difference. Salivary IgA was the highest level in the pregnant group during the third trimester, with no statistical difference. In conclusion, the pregnant women revealed a poor oral hygiene status and alteration in salivary parameters, leading to an increased prevalence of gingivitis in pregnant women. Keywords: Gingivitis, salivary flow rate, Pregnant women, Salivary IgA.