The American Dental Association(ADA) today released a statement stressing the importance of exceptionally good oral hygiene during pregnancy.

This announcement comes as no surprise as the dental community has for several years now been exposing the explicit link between oral health and overall health. However, the link between oral health in pregnant mothers and the overall health of their unborn child is a relatively recent discovery.

Specifically, the ADA research suggests:

“there may be an association between maternal gum disease and pre-term birth and low birth weight babies. In addition, a recent study says that pregnant women with gum disease may be more likely to develop gestational diabetes.”

Without this information, pregnant women have placed dental care low on their list of priorities during pregnancy. These studies may change that.

How should women care for their oral health during pregnancy?

Sally Cram, D.D.S., ADA consumer advisor and periodontist in Washington, D.C. suggests:

“If you are planning a pregnancy, schedule a dental checkup for a cleaning. If you are pregnant, continue your regular dental visits. Be sure to inform your dentist if you are pregnant or suspect you might be pregnant. In addition to regular dental visits, the ADA recommends eating a well-balanced diet, maintaining daily oral hygiene by brushing teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and cleaning between teeth at least once a day with floss or an interdental cleaner.(Source: ADA.com)”

The link between a pregnant mother’s oral health and her unborn child’s overall health is becoming stronger by the day. Therefore, it is important to follow Dr. Sally Cram’s advice and contact your dentist as soon as possible if you are pregnant or expect to become pregnant.

For more information, please visit the ADA website at Ada.com

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