From mother to child: a survey-based cross-sectional study of oral health practices and knowledge among Saudi women during their pregnancy.

Introduction: The overall and oral health status of a mother is reflected on her child. Before planning a pregnancy, completing any necessary dental treatment is critical. The current study aimed to investigate oral hygiene practices and knowledge among Saudi women by assessing oral health practices and knowledge, and the relationship between these factors and participants' understanding of how general and oral health affect the health of their children. Methods: The study was a cross-sectional survey that utilized an online structured questionnaire. The questionnaire comprised questions related to oral hygiene practices and knowledge. Results: The total number of respondents included 448 Saudi women, with 45.8% aged between 21 and 30 years. Approximately 69.6% of respondents reported brushing their teeth, with 58.1% brushing at least once daily; 53.5% using a medium-bristle toothbrush, and 56.4% using other methods (miswak or dental floss). Approximately 64.3% understood the importance of vitamin supplements for the growth and development of their children, and 53.1% agreed that the oral health of a mother correlates with that of her child. Conclusion: Saudi women have adequate knowledge regarding maintaining their oral health, which was positively associated with better self-reported oral hygiene practices, and are aware that the overall health of a mother, including her oral health, influences the oral health of her child.