Pregnancy is an exciting time filled with all sorts of preparations for your little one’s arrival. But while focusing on doctor visits, sticking to a healthy diet, and being sure that you’re getting all the vitamins you need, it’s crucial not to overlook your oral health; it plays a bigger role in your baby’s well-being than you might think! Here’s what you should know about the link between pregnancy and dental health.
How Does Pregnancy Impact Oral Health?
Hormonal changes during pregnancy can make you more vulnerable to cavities, but perhaps the even larger threat to both you and your future child is gum disease. If left untreated, what starts out as mild gum disease can progress to periodontitis, which can even end in tooth loss as well as systematic issues affecting the lungs and heart. Research also suggests a link between preterm delivery, low birthweight babies, and gum disease.
Additionally, morning sickness can expose your teeth to stomach acid, which weakens your enamel and increases the risk of tooth decay. Even the prenatal vitamins containing folic acid that are needed to support developing babies can have sugar, meaning if you’re taking them right before bed, it’s almost the same as eating candy and then going to sleep. It’s often the little things like this that are overlooked during pregnancy, leading to subpar dental health.
This all doesn’t just impact your personal oral health though – these effects are also linked to your child’s health as they grow inside of you! During pregnancy, excessive bacteria growth in the mouth can enter the bloodstream through the gums, traveling even down to the uterus. Not to mention, even after giving birth, you can still pass bacteria on to your newborn through vertical transmission.
How Can I Protect My Child’s Dental Health?
If you’re an expecting parent, one of the absolute best things you can do for your child’s dental health is take great care of your own teeth! You should aim to continue brushing and flossing daily during each stage of your pregnancy, in addition to maintaining any routine dental checkups. Your dentist will work closely with you to tailor your dental care to your needs, but pregnancy will not impact or impede routine preventive care. These routine cleanings still play an integral part in preventing issues like gum disease, which indiscriminately threaten your newborn’s dental wellness.
It’s also worth noting that good nutrition plays a role in keeping your mouth healthy and strong, so aim to eat sensible, balanced meals and limit your consumption of sugary and acidic foods. Likewise, staying hydrated can be impactful too, as it’ll assist with your mouth’s saliva flow which is your natural line of defense against problematic oral bacteria.
Remember, taking care of your teeth during pregnancy isn’t just about you – it’s about ensuring the best possible start for your child so they can enjoy a vibrant, healthy smile for life!
About the Practice
Our team here at Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics has proudly served the needs of families in New Britain and the surrounding community for several years, offering a wide range of pediatric dental services for children of all ages. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to get in touch with us to set up a visit for your child, please don’t hesitate to visit online or call today for more information or assistance. Telephone: (860) 224-2419.