Many pregnant people don't get the dental care they need, even though it's safe and important. The CHEER Study offers free dental check-ups, cleanings, and supplies to help participants take care of their teeth and gums during pregnancy. The purpose of this research study is to compare two types of noninvasive oral health interventions to evaluate their effectiveness. We want to learn if one method is more effective in supporting oral health and improving pregnancy outcomes. There are two aims of this study:
Aim 1: To evaluate whether a structured oral health intervention reduces periodontal inflammation during pregnancy and postpartum in pregnant people with indicators of periodontal disease.
Aim 2: To assess whether a structured oral health intervention is associated with changes in oral health behaviors or birth outcomes in pregnant people with periodontal disease.
Pregnant individuals aged 18 years or older with indications of periodontal diseases (gingivitis or mild periodontitis, moderate to severe periodontitis)
Less than 20 weeks pregnancy at time of enrollment
Has dental insurance (Medi-Cal or private coverage)
Willing and able to provide informed consent
Presence of systemic diseases or medical conditions that require antibiotic prophylaxis for dental procedures
Current immunosuppressive therapy/use of anti-inflammatory medications
Receipt of active periodontal treatment within the past 6 months
Complete edentulism (no natural teeth)
University of California, San Francisco
Lead sponsor
Colgate Palmolive
Collaborator