Dental Care for Pregnant Women and Newborns

The steps to good oral health and dental habits are in place long before your baby gets his/her first tooth.  A mother’s prenatal health can play a vital role in the health of both her and her baby’s teeth, gums and mouth.  As a pregnant woman, it is no secret that making healthy choices will directly benefit your developing baby.  What many people don’t know is that the formation of your baby’s teeth is already underway in the early months of pregnancy.  A well balanced diet and proper oral hygiene are essential in the overall oral health of both mom and baby.

There are many factors that can affect the oral health of a pregnant woman.  Many pregnant women find a need to snack periodically, throughout the day.  Frequent snacking on sugary foods can make a person more susceptible to cavities, thus the importance of developing good eating habits.  An increase in hormone levels can also have a direct affect on oral health.  During pregnancy, many women complain about bleeding and swollen gums.  Regular brushing, flossing and dental check ups can help to alleviate some of these symptoms as well as minimize the amount of cavity causing bacteria that is found in the mouth.

According to the Center for Disease Control, dental decay is one of the most common chronic infectious diseases in children.  Cavity causing bacteria can be transmitted from parent to child.  It is best for parents to maintain healthy hygiene habits.  Maintaining good habits as a parent will also help reinforce those habits in your children.  It is important to start good hygiene habits with your infants.  Whether your infant is breast or bottle fed, they are still susceptible to cavities.  I recommend using a soft cloth to wipe your infant’s gums frequently, especially after feeding, and always avoid putting your baby to bed with a bottle of milk or juice.  Once your baby’s first teeth come in, begin brushing with a soft toothbrush and start building that foundation for a healthy smile.

 The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends establishing a “dental home” for your child by their first birthday.  These initial dental visits will help you gain a wealth of knowledge on how to help your child maintain a healthy smile.

Article submitted by Children’s Dental Village in Tempe, AZ