True or False: You lose a tooth for each pregnancy.
False.
Pregnancy doesn’t cause dental problems. In fact, healthy teeth contribute to a healthy pregnancy and good dental health for the baby. And, mom’s poor oral health may harm the baby. That’s why it’s important for pregnant women to take care of their teeth.
Do the moms in your program know…?
- Healthy teeth for baby begins during pregnancy.
- Babies start forming teeth between the 3rd and 6th month of pregnancy.
- If Mom has untreated cavities the baby is nearly twice as likely to have cavities.
- Oral bacteria from a mom with poor dental health is risky for the baby and may cause early childhood caries, the most common chronic childhood disease.
- Dental disease is linked to broader health problems, including premature birth and low birth weight, cardiovascular disease and strokes.
- Going to the dentist for dental care is safe and necessary during pregnancy.
Inspire behavior change in the pregnant moms in your program by encouraging them to:
- Eat plenty of healthy foods, including fruits and vegetables,
- Brush and floss every day, and
- Continue to see a dentist during pregnancy.
