Oral Health and Pregnancy

Posted & filed under Children's Oral Health and Fluoride.

The importance of a healthy mouth both before and during pregnancy is not well-understood by most people. What we do know is that dental caries, the disease-process that leads to cavities, is caused by bacteria. Bacteria can spread and do so easily in families. Oral bacteria are no different, and for this reason it is important for pregnant women to reduce the amount of cavity-causing bacteria in their mouths before their baby is born.

It is unrealistic to think that mothers won’t kiss their babies or share utensils. Although we caution against cleaning pacifiers with your mouth, it is most important for mothers to understand that if their own mouth is healthy they are less likely to pass bad bacteria to their children and if they do, hopefully this will not result in a cavity until a child is older and able to tolerate a dental visit. In order to keep their mouths healthy, pregnant women should see a dentist during pregnancy (it’s safe!) and make sure that they take good care of their teeth by brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and limiting sugary foods and drinks for a healthy diet. Taking these steps will set the entire family off on the right foot for a lifetime of healthy teeth.

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