Your family’s good eating habits and teeth-cleaning routines will support your upcoming baby’s good oral health. Bad teeth are not hereditary, but the dental caries bacteria that causes tooth decay can be transmitted to the baby.
Pregnancy puts stress on the teeth
Hormonal changes during pregnancy affect the composition of saliva and put your mouth at risk of diseases. Any vomiting and frequent snacking associated with early pregnancy will also put a strain on your teeth.
Brush your teeth thoroughly with a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste twice a day. Clean the spaces between your teeth daily with floss, toothpicks or an interdental brush.
You can also reduce the growth of plaque, a bacterial film on the surfaces of your teeth, by regularly using full-xylitol products, which make it easier to brush away plaque.
The importance of diet
It is beneficial for your child's developing teeth if you eat a varied diet as well.
It's a good idea for your family to get used to a regular meal rhythm during pregnancy and avoid unnecessary snacks. Constant snacking harms the teeth. Water is the best drink for quenching thirst for the whole family.
Tooth decay is contagious
Most adults have a high level of caries-causing bacteria, known as mutans streptococci, in their mouths. This bacterium can also be transmitted to babies.
If possible, the entire family should have their mouth and teeth treated before the baby is born.
The bacterium that causes cavities is transmitted through saliva, and therefore the baby’s contact with saliva should be avoided.
You can also reduce caries transmission and promote your child's oral health through regular use of full-xylitol products.
How to seek dental care
If you have had your teeth regularly treated, you will not need additional visits to a dentist during pregnancy.
Visit an oral health clinic if it has been a while since your last oral check-up.
During your consultation appointment, a dental assistant will assess your and your partner’s oral health and care needs. If necessary, they will refer you to an oral hygienist or dentist. Treatment appointments are subject to a fee for those over the age of 18.
