By Ayo Oke

A recent study has found that many pregnant women across Sub-Saharan Africa lack basic knowledge of oral health, with fear, misconceptions, and limited access to dental care preventing them from seeking treatment during pregnancy.

The research, titled “Oral Health Knowledge, Perceptions, and Attitudes of Pregnant Women in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Systematic Review,” was led by Torojah Williams, with co-authors Adetola Babalola, Olubusayo Bolarinwa, Victor Somoye, Oluwaseun Azeez, Olayinka Onasanya, Victor Johnson, and Adaeze Egemonye.

“This systematic review provides a holistic evaluation of the utilization of oral health services among pregnant women in Africa,” the researchers noted. “There is a need for a behavioral shift that stems from grassroots education and the provision of accessible oral health facilities.”

Following PRISMA guidelines and registered with PROSPERO (CRD42024593615), the review analyzed data from more than 4,600 women across Nigeria, Sudan, and South Africa.

Published in 2024, the study revealed that most expectant mothers “rarely visit the dentist unless they experience pain, swelling, or bleeding.” Brushing twice a day was reported as “not a consistent habit,” while the use of dental floss was described as “extremely rare.”

The authors highlighted several misconceptions. “Some women believe that visiting the dentist during pregnancy could harm their unborn baby. Others view dental visits as unnecessary or unpleasant, often influenced by negative stories from friends or family.”

Despite these barriers, the study also identified promising opportunities for change. “When women were given proper information about the importance of oral health and reassured that it was safe, most expressed a willingness to seek care, both during and after pregnancy,” the researchers found. In one of the studies reviewed, over 60% of women said they planned to visit a dentist in future pregnancies after receiving counseling.

The review stressed that many expectant mothers in Sub-Saharan Africa “lack accurate knowledge about oral health, face cultural and emotional barriers, and have limited access to affordable services.”

To address these challenges, the authors recommended integrating oral health education into routine antenatal care. “Clinics and primary health centers can offer workshops and talks that explain how oral health affects both mother and baby, correct common myths, and demonstrate proper hygiene practices,” they wrote.

Improving access to services was another key recommendation. “Dental services should be made accessible and affordable, especially in rural and low-income areas, so that no woman must choose between her health and her budget.”

The researchers also advocated for a broader role in oral health promotion. “All professionals who care for pregnant women—not just dentists—should be trained to promote oral hygiene during checkups,” they said. They also suggested using “culturally sensitive approaches, such as local stories and traditional folktales,” to improve understanding and reshape attitudes toward oral care.

While acknowledging certain limitations such as limited generalizability—the authors reported that the studies reviewed demonstrated low risk of bias and consistent findings. They called for further research into cost-effective strategies for improving oral health-seeking behaviors among pregnant women in Africa.

The study concluded with a call to action for policymakers and healthcare leaders.

“Governments and stakeholders should develop cost-effective, innovative programs that can help countries meet the World Health Organization’s target of universal oral health by 2030,” the authors stated. “Good oral care must become a standard part of maternal health.”