As an expectant mother, one of the most important steps you can take for your child is to care for your own dental health. Many women do not realize how closely oral health is tied to overall wellness. Please contact Just Kidz Dentistry at 309-690-3368 today to meet with Dr. Jack Kalloch, Dr. Christa Spates or Dr. Sabeen Hafeez to discuss this connection and how you can help your child start life with a healthy smile.
Pregnancy and Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease is linked to several health concerns, including complications during pregnancy. Expectant mothers with gum disease face a higher risk of premature delivery and low birthweight.
During pregnancy, hormone levels increase significantly, which raises the likelihood of gingivitis. This condition is especially common from the second through the eighth month. Some individuals also notice an overgrowth of gum tissue during the second trimester. If you observe any changes in your mouth or symptoms of gum disease, contact our dentists promptly for an evaluation and treatment.
Common signs of gum disease include:
- Red, swollen gums
- Gums that bleed easily and feel tender
- Gum recession
- Teeth that feel loose or begin to separate
- Persistent bad breath (halitosis)
- Sores inside the mouth
- Changes in how your teeth fit together or how removable appliances fit
Maintaining Good Oral Health During Pregnancy
Maintain a balanced diet and avoid starchy or sugary snacks between meals. Nutritious eating provides the calcium, phosphorous, vitamins and minerals essential for proper development of your baby’s teeth and bones.
Keep a consistent home care routine and attend all regular dental visits. Daily flossing and brushing at least twice a day, combined with routine cleanings and exams, help prevent periodontal disease and support the health of both you and your baby. You may also ask about fluoride or other preventive options to keep teeth and gums strong.
As soon as you learn you are pregnant, schedule a comprehensive dental examination and assessment to determine if any additional care is needed.
Infant Oral Health
Clean your baby’s mouth every day. At first, use a soft, damp cloth to gently wipe the gums. This removes lingering formula or milk and helps prevent bacterial buildup.
Teeth typically begin to erupt around 6 months and continue until about age 3, though timing can vary. Once teeth appear, brush them with a soft-bristled baby toothbrush and a tiny smear of child-safe toothpaste. After age 2, use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste. Begin flossing when two teeth touch.
Brush and floss for your child until about age 7, when most children have the motor skills to brush on their own.
We recommend that children first visit with a dentist when the first tooth erupts or by age 1. Our experienced dentists will provide guidance to support healthy growth and development and keep your child’s mouth healthy.
Baby Bottle Tooth Decay
As teeth emerge, avoid putting your child to bed with bottles that contain sweetened liquids. Sugars in juice, formula or breast milk that remain in the mouth can lead to baby bottle tooth decay. This condition can also develop when parents share utensils with children and saliva transfers from the parent to the child.
You can help prevent baby bottle tooth decay by following these tips:
- Rinse pacifiers and toys with clean water, not in your mouth.
- Do not share spoons or forks with your child.
- Avoid placing sugary drinks in bottles or sippy cups.
- Do not dip pacifiers in honey or other sweetened liquids.
- If a bedtime bottle is necessary, fill it with water only.
- Transition your child to a regular cup after 12 months of age.
- Encourage a balanced, nutritious diet.
- Keep your child’s teeth clean every day.
- Ask our dentists to evaluate fluoride exposure and provide preventive treatments as needed.
If you have questions about pregnancy and oral health or early infant dental care in Peoria and Washington, Illinois, please contact our office. Our caring dentists and team are here to help you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pregnancy & Oral Health
How does pregnancy affect gum health?
Hormonal changes during pregnancy increase blood flow to gum tissue and alter the body’s response to plaque. Many women develop pregnancy gingivitis between months two and eight. Watch for red or swollen gums, bleeding, tenderness and changes in bite. Schedule an exam promptly if symptoms appear to protect your health and your baby.
Is dental care safe during pregnancy?
Yes. Regular cleanings and medically necessary care are considered safe. The second trimester is often most comfortable for nonurgent procedures. Always tell your dentist you are pregnant. Diagnostic X-rays may be taken when essential with a lead apron. Maintain daily brushing and flossing and follow your provider’s recommendations.
How should I clean my infant’s mouth and when do I start?
Begin by wiping your baby’s gums with a soft, damp cloth each day. When the first tooth appears, switch to a soft baby toothbrush and a tiny smear of child-safe toothpaste. Use a pea-sized amount after age 2. Start flossing when two teeth touch. Help with brushing until about age 7.
How can I prevent baby bottle tooth decay?
Baby bottle tooth decay occurs when sugars from milk, formula or juice pool around teeth, feeding cavity-causing bacteria. Avoid putting your child to bed with anything but water, skip sweetened drinks, do not share utensils and clean teeth daily. Transition to a regular cup by 12 months and schedule preventive visits.