June 7, 2022

Your Baby’s Oral Health and Yours

Oral health is especially important for pregnant women, according to dental specialists. Physiological changes occur throughout pregnancy, according to the Journal of Clinical & Diagnostic Research. Cavities and periodontal disorders are more common in pregnant women. The study also indicates that oral health is critical for the developing fetus throughout pregnancy. Here’s how your oral health influences your baby if you want to grasp the relationship.

Periodontitis

Srinivas and Parry’s study in the Journal of Women’s Health examines the relationship between maternal periodontal disease and low birth weight, preterm delivery, and preeclampsia. Through the amniotic cavity, placenta, and fetal membranes, bacteria from your gums can reach your baby’s mouth cavity.

Periodontal disease causes placental dysfunction and infection when it is inflamed and infected during pregnancy. This will put your infant at risk for periodontal and medical problems. If you don’t treat gingivitis, you risk losing the bones that support your teeth. This infection has the potential to spread to your baby’s mouth.

Cavities in the teeth

Pregnant women, according to maternal health specialists, are at a higher risk of getting cavities as a result of specific behavioral changes. Cavities might occur as a result of changes in eating habits during pregnancy. Bacteria can grow in your mouth as a result of your food cravings. Following your delivery, your baby’s mouth is likely to harbor the same bacteria. Cavities will develop in early childhood as a result of early exposure to these corrosive bacteria, which will be exacerbated by the consumption of sugary snacks as the baby grows older. These cavities will subsequently have an impact on the child’s development due to dental pain, which will make it difficult for the child to concentrate during preparatory tasks.

Dehydration of the mouth

Clinical data demonstrates that your mouth becomes drier when you’re pregnant. This occurs as a result of your body’s hormonal fluctuations. If you smoke or drink alcohol while pregnant, your mouth may become drier. When your mouth is dry, it is more likely to become infected with bacteria. When an infection develops in your mouth, it spreads to your unborn child.

What Can You Do?

Dentists generally provide their pregnant patients with useful information and reminders. Here are a few things you can do to improve the health of your mouth:

After experiencing morning sickness, brush your teeth right away. After that, gargle with a mixture of 1 cup water and 1 teaspoon baking soda. After you’ve vomited, this will assist to soothe your mouth. To reduce the risk of cavities and periodontal disease, use fluoride toothpaste and anti-gingivitis mouthwash treatments. Maintain good oral hygiene, consume nutritious foods, drink plenty of water, and schedule regular dental visits. During your pregnancy, you should be extra cautious about maintaining good oral health. Your baby’s dental and general health will suffer as a result of this.