Oral health is very important aspect of health aspect. as our oral part is gateway and linked to many organs. We should take special care and thats required minimal things .But during pregnancy it becomes more important.. It’s not mere health check up.
changes in pregnancy include pregnancy gingivitis, benign oral gingival lesions, tooth mobility, tooth erosion, dental caries, and periodontitis
During ANC visit educate the couple that its perfectly normal and thoroughly check dental health
Dental and obstetric teams can be influential in helping women initiate and maintain oral health care during pregnancy to improve lifelong oral hygiene habits and dietary behavior for women and their families. For example, women with poor oral health may harbor high levels of Streptococcus mutans in their saliva leading to tranmission of disease to infants
Do’s :- Advocate for broader oral health coverage of women before, during, and after pregnancy. Pregnancy is a unique time when women may gain access to oral health coverage.
Refer patients for oral health care with a written note or call,
Oral health is not separate from systemic health, and pregnancy makes this connection even more significant. The idea that the oral cavity acts as a gateway to the body is well reflected here, especially considering its links to inflammation, infection, and overall wellbeing.
“Absolutely. Pregnancy brings hormonal changes that increase the risk of gingivitis and periodontal disease, which can affect both maternal and fetal health. Regular dental check-ups, good oral hygiene, and timely treatment during pregnancy are essential—not optional. Oral health is a key part of antenatal care.”
Must read article for everyone, I agree that oral health is connected with the entire gut heatlh linking it further to systemic health, thus contributing significantly to pregnancy care. And one must take care of their oral hygiene by brushing twice and tongue cleaning without forgetting the palate as well.
Very few of us actually prioritize dental care during pregnancy, even though it plays a vital role in both maternal and baby’s health. Pregnancy brings real oral changes, and ignoring them can have lasting effects. Dental visits during this time aren’t optional they’re an essential part of complete antenatal care.
I always tell my patiens whom I know that they might plan pregnancy in some time , to get complete treatment of any persistent caries or implacted tooth as it might cause problems during pregnancy and treatment line is also limited during that period. Also I motivate to keep good oral hygiene.
Oral health during pregnancy is often overlooked, but it directly impacts both maternal and fetal health. Early screening and proper dental care should be a routine part of antenatal care, not an afterthought.
