Comparing Mid-Appalachian OB/GYNS and WV Internists in Oral Health Screenings

Current studies continue to demonstrate a relationship between periodontitis, adverse pregnancy outcomes, and cardiovascular disease. A survey of West Virginia internists reported in April, 2000, investigated oral screenings conducted by internists (M. Joseph, et al. 2000). A similar survey of West Virginia and Ohio OB/GYNs focused upon their oral screenings (R. Crout, et al. 2002). Objective: The objective of this study was to compare the results of the two studies in terms of the incidence and nature of oral screenings, referrals to and consultations with dentists, and interest in CE. Method: The two studies' findings were compared then correlated utilizing five identical questions. Result: Findings revealed that 46.8% (confidence interval ±5.6%) of OB/GYNs have no time to perform an oral evaluation, and 6.7±3.2% of internists have no time to perform an oral evaluation. If conducted, there were no significant differences between the groups in the examination of: the posterior pharynx (OB/GYNs: 45.9±8.1%; internists: 59.4±6.7%); teeth (OB/GYNs: 29.9±7.4%; internists: 23.9 ±5.8%); and gingiva (OB/GYNs: 24.1±7.0%; internists: 17.8±5.2%). Significant differences existed in the referrals of 1-5 patients per year to dentists (OB/GYNs: 45.3±5.6%; internists: 34.2±6.1%); and having 1-5 drug consultations per year with dentists (OB/GYNs: 36.5±5.4%; internists: 54.2±6.4%). Both groups had no significant difference in their high interst in CE (OB/GYNs: 77.5±4.7%; internists: 73.7±5.7%). Conclusion: When it came to not having time to perform an oral examination, 46.8% of OB/GYNs and 6.7% of internists had no time. Of those who did an oral examination, there were no significant differences for the examination of the posterior pharynx, teeth, or gingiva. Internists were significantly more likely to have drug consultations with patients' dentists. On the other hand, OB/GYNs were significantly more likely to refer patients to dentists. There is great need for Mid-Appalachian OB/GYNs and internists to perform more and better oral examinations. Both groups recognize the need for and expressed an interest in dental-related CE.