By Liz Pickett

The old wives tale states that pregnant women should expect to lose a tooth with every pregnancy - but we now know that taking care of oral health during pregnancy is essential to a healthy pregnancy and healthy baby.

Why worry about oral health while pregnant? Current research is showing that there may be an association between periodontal infection during pregnancy and preterm and low birthweight babies. A preterm baby is one that is born before 37 weeks of gestation (a full term baby is 40 weeks), and a low birthweight baby is one that weighs less than 5.5 pounds.

Even if you are not the type of person who usually reaches for the dessert menu after dinner, pregnant women may experience cravings for sweets. If mom-to-be doesn’t brush and floss properly on a regular basis, it may lead to a periodontal infection.

This infection, from the build up of bacteria, can lead to tooth decay which can then trigger the production of prostaglandins - hormones that can lead to the onset of labor. Babies born preterm are likely to be low birth weight. Studies show that with proper care and maintenance of your teeth, you can reduce the risk of preterm birth.

Gingivitis is another common ailment that affects gums during pregnancy. It causes the gums to appear swollen and red, and they may bleed easily especially during tooth brushing. Morning sickness or vomiting during pregnancy can also lead to gingivitis because the excess acid irritates the gums. The hormones of pregnancy create an even greater gum sensitivity.

Pregnancy tumors, which are overgrowths of gum tissue, may occur during the second trimester. These lumps appear deep red in color and can be very uncomfortable. Your dentist may want to remove them after your pregnancy.

All of the above problems can be prevented, however. Here are some things for pregnant women to remember:

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
• Floss daily and limit your intake of simple carbohydrates to mealtimes only.
• Try to avoid sugary snacks - whole grains and vegetables are better choices
• Drink more water or low-fat or skim milk.
• Avoiding carbonated beverages during pregnancy
• Use an antibacterial mouthwash to help fight tooth decay (make sure that it does not contain alcohol)

If you are aware of any oral health issues that you may have, it is important to treat them immediately. Visit your dentist for regular checkups during pregnancy and be sure to let your dentist know that you are pregnant. Just as important, however, is your health BEFORE you become pregnant! Take your 400 micrograms of folic acid every day, don’t smoke (and avoid secondhand smoke, too!) – strive for a healthy lifestyle!

A special note to new moms and dads: don’t share the pacifier or spoon with your baby! Decay-causing bacteria can be transferred directly to your baby’s mouth!!

Liz Pickett, CD, PCD (DONA) is the Perinatal Health Educator for Maternal-Infant Services Network (MISN) of Orange, Sullivan and Ulster Counties, a not-for-profit organization that coordinates health and human services for pregnant women and children. Visit our website at www.misn-ny.org or call 1-800-453-4666 for more information.

For More Information on FREE or LOW COST Health Insurance, Prenatal Care or Breastfeeding Support Call 1-800-453-4666.