Belief in Myths about Oral Health among Indonesian Mothers

Myth belief might have an impact on oral health, especially in mothers. The aim of this study was to describe the myths related to oral health and the belief in such myths by pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and mothers with preschool children in Indonesia. A cross-sectional study was conducted using a self-administered online questionnaire. The questionnaire was designed to collect data on the sociodemographics and medical histories of mothers, oral health histories of mothers and their children, oral health behavior during pregnancy, and related myths and beliefs. The identified myths and associated variables were then analyzed. A total of 895 respondents participated; however, only 801 respondents were eligible for inclusion in the analysis. Women who were housewives, had a lower educational levels, and had not visited a dentist before or during pregnancy tended to believe in myths. In Indonesia, belief in myths related to oral health exists and may potentially be a barrier to optimizing maternal and child oral health, and health in general.