Many women meticulously plan nutrition, supplements, and exercise before pregnancy but one crucial factor is often overlooked: oral health.
Research shows gum disease can increase the risk of preterm birth, low birth weight, and even fertility struggles.
Clinical Director at Risas Dentist Kids Dr. Elizabeth Walton is urging women to put their dental check-up on the pre-pregnancy checklist & and here’s why…
“You really need to try and have optimal dental health before you get pregnant, so you can make it through those nine months with only check ups,” she explains.
During pregnancy, rising hormone levels can increase inflammation in the gums and heighten the risk of gingivitis, infections, and dental complications. Yet, if issues like abscesses or deep decay occur in the first trimester, dentists are limited in what treatment they can provide.
“If you come in with a huge infection in your first trimester, we can’t really do a root canal or put you on antibiotics. There’s a lot we can’t do,” Dr. Walton says.
Despite these risks, Walton says most patients only mention pregnancy after the fact. “Ideally, women should be sitting down with their dentist beforehand, just like they do with their doctor.”
5 Oral Health Tips for Women Planning To Conceive:
- Book a dental check-up before trying to conceive
- Address existing issues like cavities, gum inflammation, or wisdom teeth
- Keep up regular brushing and flossing: “You cannot be not brushing,” says Walton
- Invest in a water flosser or fluoride mouthwash if you’re prone to plaque
- Remember: pregnancy isn’t the time for complex dental work if it can be avoided
Dr. Walton adds: “There’s so much we can help with ahead of time like, don’t ever put a baby to bed with a bottle of milk. If you can keep sugar out of your kid’s mouth until they’re eight, they’ll probably never have cavities in their life.”
