Start motherhood with a healthy mouth!

If you are pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant, taking care of your teeth and gums is especially important. The health of your mouth can affect the health of your baby.

During pregnancy, you are more likely to experience serious gum disease or “periodontitis” (par-ee-oh-dawn-tie-tis) than before you became pregnant. This is because the hormone changes you experience during pregnancy make your gums more sensitive to plaque bacteria. The result can be increased swelling, bleeding, redness and tenderness.

Researchers have found a link between serious gum disease (periodontitis) and pregnant women whose babies were born too early or at a low birth weight. Low birth weight babies are at higher risk for health concerns such as temperature instability, feeding and breathing problems and jaundice.

Make an appointment with your dentist as soon as you know you are pregnant. Ask about the risk of gum disease during pregnancy and how you can prevent it. If you notice signs of gum disease, call your dental professional right away. Cleanings during your second or early third trimester may be recommended to help control gum disease. Remember to continue regular dental visits throughout your pregnancy.

• If you need help paying for dental care, the First Steps (Pregnancy Medicaid) provides free medical, dental, and vision insurance. Go to the BenefitFinder to see if you are eligible or call the Family Health Hotline at 1-800-322-2588.

Your dental health may affect your baby even after he/she is born. Kissing and sharing food can spread bacteria that cause cavities. To protect your baby, keep your own mouth free of cavities and gum disease and start cleaning your baby’s teeth as soon as they come in.

How to prevent gum disease:

• Watch for signs. Bright red (not pink), swollen or bleeding gums are signs of gum disease. Bad breath and loose teeth are also signs. If you see any of these signs call your dental professional right away.
• Get regular check-ups. In general, you should visit the dentist every six months. During pregnancy it is especially important that to continue regular dental visits.
• Brush your teeth. Take the time to brush your teeth every day – in the morning, at night and after meals. Brushing your teeth reduces your risk of gum disease.
• Floss. Plaque can build between teeth, where your toothbrush can’t reach. Using dental floss everyday can reduce plaque between teeth and around the gum line.
• Limit sweet and starchy snacks. Soda pop, candy and chips contain a lot of sugar. These foods feed the bacteria that live in your mouth and cause gum disease.

The National Maternal and Child Oral Health Resource Center has tips on how to keep you and your baby’s teeth and gum healthy.