Pregnancy is a milestone filled with excitement and anticipation, but also an array of additional health considerations. Among these is dental health, and unfortunately, it often gets overshadowed by more obvious aspects of prenatal care. However, keeping your mouth in great shape during pregnancy can do your little one quite a lot of good! Continue reading to learn a little more about how oral health during pregnancy can affect your developing child and why it’s paramount to practice diligent hygiene during these special, life-changing months!
Some Dental Problems Can Affect a Developing Baby
Dental problems have the potential to affect more than just your mouth; it’s well-known that untreated issues involving the teeth and gums can lead to systematic problems that distress other parts of the body. However, it becomes even more complicated when affecting pregnant patients.
Pregnancy itself doesn’t cause poor oral health or damage to the teeth; rather, it’s the changes in one’s lifestyle, habits, and bodily processes that may increase the risk of dental problems during pregnancy. For example, hormone changes and the vomiting associated with morning sickness can affect the teeth and gums, as can snacking or giving in to various unhealthy cravings combined with lapses in diligent oral hygiene.
However, it is untreated gum disease that poses one of the largest threats. Research has found a link between severe gum disease in pregnant women and premature birth rates with associated low birth weights. The bacteria from the mother can make its way through the bloodstream and into the uterus. Babies who are born prematurely can have a risk of brain injury, problems with their eyesight and hearing, and other types of debilitating issues. Of course, these bacteria can also cause problems for mothers; gum disease has also been linked to cardiovascular illness and diabetes, among other concerns.
You’re Now Brushing & Flossing for Two
The bottom line is that you’re far less likely to have dental troubles during pregnancy if you look carefully after your teeth and gums before you’re pregnant, as well as during your pregnancy. And fewer dental problems mean fewer potential complications for your newborn, which is a top priority. Here are some easy-to-follow tips:
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day using fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Floss daily using traditional floss, interdental brushes or an oral irrigator—whatever your preference is. This is a great defense against gum disease!
- Eat a healthy diet and limit food and drinks that are high in added sugars; specifically, be mindful of sugary sodas and coffee.
- Avoid tobacco products and cigarettes, in addition to alcohol.
- Continue to visit your dentist for routine preventive care.
If you’re planning on getting pregnant, you should also speak with your dentist about any treatments that can be done before your pregnancy. By ensuring optimal oral health, you’re ensuring that your newborn is as happy and strong as possible!
About the Practice
Here at Kids’ Smiles on Lincoln, we proudly provide families in Worcester with a wide range of preventive, restorative, emergency and special needs dentistry. We understand that dental care is important from a very young age, and we’re fully committed to helping your child’s smile develop happily and healthily. For additional information about the blog or our pediatric dental services, or to schedule an appointment for your child, please visit us online or call us today. Telephone: (508) 290-0090.