Dental Care During Pregnancy

Can a child’s oral health be affected during pregnancy?

Most women notice changes to their gums such as reddening, swelling and bleeding during pregnancy.

These changes are referred to as "pregnancy gingivitis," and they can start as early as the second month of pregnancy. The condition tends to peak around the eighth month, and it often tapers off after the baby is born.

Pregnancy gingivitis occurs due to the increased level of the hormones Estrogen and Progesterone, which exaggerate the way gums react to the irritants in plaque.

However, it's still plaque — not hormones — that is the major cause of gingivitis.

The level of Progesterone in your body during pregnancy can be 10 times higher than normal, which may enhance the growth of certain bacteria.  The immune system may also react differently which can also increase the risk of gum disease.  Women who have gum disease may be more likely to have a baby that is born too early and too small. Although more research is underway, it appears that gum disease triggers increased levels of biological fluids that can induce labour.

The good news is, you can protect the oral health of both yourself and your unborn child by maintaining proper dental hygiene such as - brushing using a fluoride toothpaste like BioMin™ F, establishing a regular flossing regime, eating small amounts of nutritious food throughout the day, and visiting your dentist for check-ups.

It is just as important to keep up this routine after birth.

 Though there is still a lot to be understood on the topic, leading dental experts have conducted research that links maternal and paediatric oral health.

“Mothers with cavities have kids with cavities. There is a biological connection.”
Dr. Rocio Quinonez, DMD, MPH