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Expectant Smiles

Dental Care During Pregnancy

By Jennifer Lacey

You've heard that pregnancy is a total body experience – and it's true. Even your mouth doesn't escape the changes of pregnancy.

In fact, increased levels of estrogen often make your teeth and gums very vulnerable and susceptible to certain conditions, which is why taking care of your teeth is a must while you're expecting.

Good dental care prior to and during your pregnancy is vital for your continued good health and the health of your baby. If a woman is planning on becoming pregnant, dental professionals agree it is a good idea to make an appointment to see the dentist, especially if it has been more than six months since your last visit.

The dentist will be able to let you know not only how healthy your gums and teeth are, but if there are any potential problems that need to be taken care of before you become pregnant.

Dan E. Peterson, D.D.S., of Family Gentle Dental Care, in Gering, Neb., advises his patients who are planning a pregnancy to take a good look at the care that they give to their teeth. "I tell them that if they do not have good dental health, they can transmit cavity-causing organisms known as streptococci to their baby," he says. "These organisms are responsible for causing tooth decay. Research has shown that through brushing your teeth at least twice a day, flossing at least once a day to disrupt bacteria growth between your teeth and using a alcohol/sugar free mouth rinse with an antibacterial agent, you can suppress or reduce the bacteria which cause tooth decay."

If you are pregnant, regular dental visits are essential, especially since a mom-to-be is providing the nutrients for the growth and health of her unborn baby. "During pregnancy, good dental care, available fluoride and an adequate diet are necessary for optimal oral development of your baby's teeth," says Dr. Peterson. "Once you're pregnant, the changes in estrogen and progesterone levels cause an increase incidence of dental problems. These include increased sensitivity of gums, increase in cavities and plaque formation."

Dr. Peterson believes that all of these changes can affect the pregnant woman's dental and overall health, as well as affecting the development of her baby, who begins tooth development during the 6th to 8th week of pregnancy.

Since many women have a tendency to snack more during pregnancy, you need to take a good look at exactly what you're eating and the effect that it will eventually have on your teeth. "Be sure to eat a wide variety of foods," says Dr. Peterson. "You should remember to consume dairy products, which are the best source for calcium, the main building block of bones and teeth. Also make sure you include foods in your diet that are a good source of vitamin D phosphorus, as well as foods that contain vitamins A, C and protein. By doing this as soon as you can, you will be preparing for the development of your baby's teeth and bones."

When a mom-to-be watches the types of food she eats, she also helps to make sure that her baby will have strong, healthy teeth. "Slight deficiencies in your diet and dental health may cause changes in your baby's tooth formation that will leave a tooth at greater risk for decay in life," says Dr. Peterson.

Want to see more?

• Common Dental Concerns During Pregnancy
• Pregnancy Gingivitis: An Avoidable Condition
• Smoking for Two: A Dangerous Pursuit
• Talk about it!

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