dental visits

Baby, Baby!

Thursday, August 5th, 2010

Sure, when you’re thinking about conceiving, you visit your OBGYN and general practitioner.  But be sure to make a stop at your dentist’s office as well!  Progesterone, a hormone that spikes during pregnancy, stimulates the production of substances called prostaglandins.  This can cause inflammation of the blood vessels in the gum tissues and lead to gum disease. You should get your teeth cared for and cavities filled six months before you become pregnant, ideally. While you’re pregnant, maintain your schedule of regular checkups for dental health (but skip the X-rays).  Some insurance plans have provisions for pregnant mothers to have a third dental cleaning during their pregnancy at no additional cost.

Recent studies have suggested that oral bacteria associated with gum disease and their bi-products have the ability to cross the placenta.  Passage of these bacterial products can affect the developing baby by stimulating an inflammatory response in the mother, which may ultimately result in preterm delivery (PTD)—birth before 37 weeks of pregnancy— which is also associated with low birth weight.

Of course, after you have delivered the amazing new addition to your family, be sure to find a pediatric dentist to help your child be well on their way to oral health!

 Dear Doctor- Dentistry & Oral Health offers tips on how to ensure the health and well-being of both mother and baby.

 Pregnancy Magazine offers great articles for expecting parents and new families.

Tags: New Parents, Pregnancy, Pregnancy and Oral Health, Preventing cavities for my child

Posted in General, New Parents, Pregnancy, Prevention, dental visits, dentist