Are You Pregnant? Don't Skip The Dentist — Oral Health Is Linked To Your Baby’s Growth
Pregnancy hormones can affect oral health, but it is often overlooked. Studies have found that untreated dental problems during pregnancy can affect the baby's development.
By Lt Gen Dr. Vimal Arora (Retd)
Pregnancy is not a state of disease — marked only by morning sickness, swollen ankles, or tooth loss — but a reflection of health at its peak. Your body is transforming into your baby’s first home. Every organ, every process, and yes, even your smile, plays a role in creating a safe and nurturing space for your child to grow.
According to The Journal of American Dental Association, pregnant women with chronic gum disease are four to seven times more likely to have a premature baby. Yet, Oral health remains one of the most overlooked aspects of prenatal care in India.
How Pregnancy Hormones Affect Your Oral Health
Pregnancy hormones, such as estrogen and progesterone, increase sensitivity in the gums, leading to swelling and bleeding due to plaque buildup. These hormonal changes, along with increased snacking and disrupted brushing habits, raise the risk of cavities.
Further, frequent vomiting and acid reflux definitely lead to a generalised enamel erosion, while pregnancy tumours — harmless gum lumps — typically disappear after childbirth.
Reduced saliva flow causes dry mouth, which further increases plaque buildup and tooth decay risk.
Connection Between Oral Health And Your Baby’s Growth
When oral health issues like gum disease are left untreated during pregnancy, bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream. In some cases, these bacteria may reach the placenta and potentially affect your baby's development.
Studies have found associations between untreated dental problems during pregnancy and outcomes such as:
- An increased risk of pre-term delivery
- The possibility of low birth weight
- A higher chance of pregnancy-related high blood pressure conditions
According to a publication in the US National Library of Medicine, premature and low-birthweight babies are 40 times more likely to die during their first month. These infants are also vulnerable to complications like chronic lung disease, immune system challenges, cardiovascular disorders, and vision or hearing problems.
Prevention Is Protection: Tips For A Healthy Pregnancy Smile
Pregnant women may bleed more readily due to hormonal changes, which can discourage regular brushing and flossing. But maintaining your Oral health during pregnancy is not rocket science.
Simple steps can go a long way:
- Schedule a dental checkup early in your pregnancy
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and floss once a day
- Rinse with plain water after vomiting to reduce acid damage
- Stay hydrated to maintain saliva flow
- Limit sugar intake and eat calcium-rich foods
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid gum irritation
- Dental cleanings, fillings, and even extractions are safe during pregnancy, especially in the second trimester. Always inform your dentist that you are pregnant so they can tailor your care.
What Role The Government Can Play
In India, where even general oral health is often neglected, that during pregnancy does not usually get enough attention. The government can play a transformative role in bridging the gap between awareness and access. A 2017 study conducted in central India found that most pregnant women lacked basic awareness of how oral health affects pregnancy outcomes. This underlines the need for systemic intervention.
The following government initiatives can make a real difference:
- Include Dental Screenings in Antenatal Care: Make Oral checkups a standard part of government prenatal programs to catch issues early.
- Train Frontline Health Workers: Equip ASHAs, ANMs, and similar workers to identify and educate on Oral health risks during pregnancy.
- Leverage Existing Campaigns: Use platforms like Janani Suraksha Yojana or Mission Indradhanush to promote maternal Oral health awareness.
- Improve Rural Dental Access: Boost funding for dental services in PHCs and government hospitals to ensure affordable care.
- Policy Recognition: Integrate Oral health into the National Health Mission’s maternal care agenda, with clear budgets and measurable outcomes.
By leveraging India’s strong public health systems, we can ensure that dental health becomes a standard part of pregnancy care — not an afterthought.
Pregnancy is a time of immense change and responsibility. But that responsibility starts with caring for your own body. Your well-being is the foundation of your baby’s health.
Prioritising your oral care isn’t just about avoiding discomfort. It’s a vital step in protecting yourself and your growing baby. Let’s start recognising it as an essential part of prenatal care.
Lt Gen Dr. Vimal Arora (Retd) is the Chief Clinical Officer at Clove Dental.
[Disclaimer: The information provided in the article, including treatment suggestions shared by doctors, is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.]
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