Developing a Novel eHealth Application for Oral Systemic Issues during Pregnancy

DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): Oral disease is a silent epidemic because of its prevalence and missed prevention opportunities. Evidence has established connections between oral-systemic etiologies, including the effects of periodontal disease (PD), and a range of health outcomes and co-morbidities across the lifecourse (e.g., adverse pregnancy and birth outcomes; early childhood carries; chronic conditions throughout adulthood). Pregnancy represents a sensitive period in the lifecourse increasing risk for poor oral health among mothers and their offspring. Although research indicates approximately 40% of pregnant women experience PD, only 23-35% of pregnant women report visiting a dentist during pregnancy. Subsequently, provider guidelines, endorsedby the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and the American Dental Association (ADA), confer the importance of receiving oral health education, assessment, and treatment during pregnancy. However, barriers to positive oral heal