Maternal oral health in pregnancy: determinants of oral hygiene material preferences at Eksuth, Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria

Maternal oral health is a vital yet underexplored aspect of prenatal care, particularly in resourcelimited settings like Nigeria, where oral hygiene material preferences can influence health outcomes. This study examined the determinants of oral hygiene material preferences among pregnant women attending antenatal care at Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital (EKSUTH), Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria. It specifically focused on trimester-based usage and the underlying factors driving these preferences. Using a descriptive survey design, data were collected from 180 pregnant women via a structured questionnaire. The survey assessed sociodemographic characteristics, types of oral hygiene materials used (e.g., toothpaste, toothbrushes, mouthwash, dental floss, chewing sticks), and reasons for changes during pregnancy. The mean age of respondents was 31.8 years, with 82.8% married and 55.0% having tertiary education. Usage of fluoridated toothpaste and medium brushes decreased in the first trimester, whereas minty/herbal pastes and natural mouthwashes increased,reflecting trimester-specific shifts. Taste (40.0-41.7%) and hypersalivation (20.0-31.7%) were key reasons for changing toothpaste, while bleeding gums (44.6-55.1%) drove toothbrush changes. Texture, taste, and colour emerged as important influencers across materials, alongside family influence, cost, and brand. These findings highlight the interplay of sensory preferences, physiological changes, and socioeconomic factors in shaping oral hygiene practices during pregnancy. The study recommends tailored dental education and product development to address trimester-specific needs, contributing to improved maternal oral health interventions in Nigeria and similar low- and middle-income contexts.