Pregnancy and oral health
You can prevent pregnancy complications by taking care of your teeth.
Scientists have found that poor oral health during pregnancy can be linked to problems for both mom and baby, such as:
- Early birth (baby born too soon)
- Low birth weight (baby is very small)
- High blood pressure
- High blood sugar
Tips for a healthy pregnancy are listed below.
See your dentist.
When you're pregnant, your hormones change. This can lead to more bacteria and swelling in your mouth, which can cause cavities, gum disease, and even tooth loss.
Don't worry, dental care like X-rays, certain pain medications, and numbing shots are safe during pregnancy. Make sure to follow your dentist's advice before and after your baby arrives.
If it's been more than 6 months since your last dental visit, or if you have any concerns about your teeth, make an appointment right away. Tell the dental office you're pregnant and your due date so they can give you the best care.
Practice good oral hygiene.
Brush your teeth at least twice a day with toothpaste that has fluoride.
Get a new toothbrush if the bristles are bent or every 3 months, whichever comes first.
Rinse your mouth every night with a fluoride mouthwash you can buy at the store.
If you throw up, rinse your mouth with a teaspoon of baking soda mixed in a cup of water. Wait at least 30 minutes before brushing your teeth. Stomach acids are released in the mouth when vomiting, and brushing will spread the acid further and cause damage to the teeth.
Eat healthy foods.
Choose foods that are good for you, like:
- Fruits
- Vegetables
- Whole grains (like whole wheat bread)
- Milk and dairy products
- Meats, fish, chicken
- Beans
- Eggs
- Nuts
Try to limit foods and drinks with a lot of sugar. Read food labels to pick items that are low in sugar. If you feel sick to your stomach, try eating small amounts of healthy food throughout the day. Drink water or milk instead of sugary drinks.
Other healthy habits.
Go to classes that help you prepare for your baby.
Try to stop using tobacco and stay away from secondhand smoke.
Don't drink alcohol or use illicit drugs.
Discuss prescription and over-the-counter medications with your doctor.
After your baby is born.
Keep taking care of your oral health! Continue to see your dentist, brush and floss, eat healthy, and keep up with other good habits.
Also, remember to take care of your baby's teeth and gums, feed them healthy foods, and take them to the dentist by their first birthday.
Where can you find a dentist?
You can also find a dentist that accepts Medicaid at https://medicaid.utah.gov.
Or call 1-866-608-9422 to talk to a Medicaid health program representative.
Click the links below to download flyers containing this information.
Visit the websites below for supplemental materials.
National Maternal and Child Health Resource Center
Utah's Office of Maternal and Child Health (MCH)
MCH works to reduce sickness, disability, and death among women of childbearing age, children, and youth in the state.
Utah's Women, Infants, and Children program (WIC)
WIC is a supplemental nutrition program that offers nutrition services and healthy foods to eligible pregnant, breastfeeding, non-breastfeeding postpartum women, and to infants and children up to their 5th birthday. You can learn how to feed your baby, shop on a budget, prepare quick nutritious meals, and many other helpful tips.