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Pregnancy and Oral Health

Gum Disease and Pregnancy

Regular dental visits are important before, during and after pregnancy. Tell your Dentist and/or Dental Hygienist that you are pregnant.

Why is Oral Health Important to You and Your Baby?

  • Healthy teeth and gums contribute to overall health.
  • Research suggests that bacteria from gums may travel through the bloodstream. This can contribute to a number of serious health conditions.
  • Studies have shown that gum disease in pregnant women may contribute to low birth weight pre-term infants.

Pregnancy Gingivitis

  • Hormonal changes while pregnant may cause gum disease. This can lead to a condition called pregnancy gingivitis.
  • Good oral hygiene practice and professional dental care is very important during pregnancy.

Morning Sickness

Stomach acid may damage the tooth enamel and make teeth prone to decay. If you vomit, rinse your mouth with water and wait a half hour before brushing to make sure the acid is gone.

Oral Hygiene of Parents can affect Oral Health of Babies

  • Cavities are caused by infectious bacteria that babies are not born with.
  • Adults may transfer these cavity-causing bacteria.
  • Adults who practice good oral hygiene have fewer bacteria in their own mouth and may reduce the chance of passing on to baby.
  • Avoid sharing utensils.
  • Never clean baby’s soother in your mouth.

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