Pregnant? Don’t Neglect Your Oral Health

While a pregnant woman may take prenatal vitamins and ensure she gets the proper nutrients from her diet to support the health of the baby, oral health can easily be overlooked. Given the profound effects that an unhealthy mouth can have on the rest of the body, not to mention the unborn child, it’s important to maintain proper dental health throughout pregnancy.

How does oral health impact your pregnancy?

Aside from the fact that oral health is an essential building block for the overall health of the body, there is research to suggest that the presence of gum disease can have very specific implications for pregnancy. Studies indicate that women who have gum disease are more likely to give birth prematurely. The babies also have a higher chance of weighing less than the babies of mothers with healthy gums.

Low birth weight can be a risk factor for long-term health issues when it comes to the child, including learning disabilities and delayed motor skills. Additionally, babies born prematurely are at a higher risk of experiencing respiratory and digestive issues, as well as loss of hearing or vision.

It’s also possible that gum disease left untreated can result in an infection spreading to the infant that causes it to perish before birth. The oral bacteria can travel through the bloodstream to the placenta and infect the child. While this is not an extremely common occurrence, it’s still important to be aware of the potential risks of leaving gum disease untreated while pregnant.

Steps to take to ensure healthy teeth

Bleeding gums are relatively common in women who are pregnant; it tends to be caused by hormonal changes. However, bleeding gums can also be a sign of gingivitis or gum disease. If you suspect you may be at risk for the disease or already have it, contact your dentist for a check up and treatment.

Aside from being extra cautious, you should also stick to a healthy routine of brushing twice a day for two full minutes. Flossing daily and using mouthwash help keep harmful bacteria in check as well. Even if you don’t suspect you have gum disease, regular trips to the dentist before and during your pregnancy are important. Not only does periodontal disease put your baby at risk, it puts you at risk for health conditions such as cardiovascular disease that could impact your ability to be the bets parent possible.