# Association Between DMFT Index, Dental Plaque, and Pre‐eclampsia in Pregnant Women: A Case–Control Study

## TL;DR

Poor dental health, including tooth decay and plaque, is linked to a higher risk of pre-eclampsia in pregnant women.

## Contribution

This study establishes a novel association between oral health indicators and pre-eclampsia in pregnant women.

## Key findings

- Pregnant women with pre-eclampsia had significantly higher DMFT and plaque indices than controls.
- Each unit increase in DMFT and plaque index was associated with increased odds of pre-eclampsia.
- The study recommends integrating oral health assessments into antenatal care to reduce risks.

## Abstract

This study investigates the association between Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth (DMFT) Index, dental plaque (assessed via Plaque Index [PI]), and pre‐eclampsia in pregnant women.

A case–control study was conducted with 70 pregnant women diagnosed with pre‐eclampsia (cases) and 70 without (controls), matched for demographic and obstetric variables. Data were collected using a checklist capturing demographic details, obstetric history, and oral health parameters (DMFT and PI). Statistical analyses included chi‐square tests, independent t‐tests, and multiple logistic regression.

The case group exhibited a significantly higher mean DMFT index (11.70 ± 2.88 vs. 9.21 ± 2.24, p < 0.001) and PI (33.26 ± 9.21 vs. 28.30 ± 7.26, p < 0.001) compared to controls. Each one‐unit increase in the DMFT index and PI was associated with 19% and 5% increased odds of pre‐eclampsia, respectively (p < 0.001).

Dental caries and plaque are significantly associated with pre‐eclampsia in pregnant women. Integrating oral health assessments into antenatal care is recommended to mitigate these risks and improve maternal and fetal outcomes.