513 - Pregnancy and Barriers to Oral Care in Buffalo, NY

Purpose: The survey to assess the knowledge and availability of prenatal oral health care in individuals in Buffalo, New York. Determining the current dental knowledge of this populace will highlight low awareness surrounding access to care for pregnant individuals and identify incomprehension of anticipated early childhood oral health. This will assist the design of targeted education programs and serve as a basis for interprofessional work improving the oral health and quality of life of both the pregnant individuals and their children.

Methods: This survey study will seek responses from residents of Buffalo, New York, who have the capacity to become pregnant. After University at Buffalo Institutional Review Board approval, an anonymous survey will assess availability of dental care as well as knowledge of dental care. Demographics of zip code, race and ethnicity, and income will be collected. Buffalo Perinatal-Prenatal Network will assist in reaching this demographic. 

Results: We expect that both pregnant and non-pregnant individuals will erroneously believe that dental procedures are unsafe during pregnancy. We also anticipate that African-American participants will report more barriers to care. These factors are supported by recent literature.

Conclusion: Our findings will serve as the basis for creating an interprofessional forum on the importance of dental care throughout pregnancy, and its role in early childhood health. Future researchers may benefit from surveying a broader population. Part II of this study will survey pediatricians and obstetricians, who influence healthcare decisions of pregnant individuals.