Oral health is important for everyone but keeping an eye on oral health is particularly important for pregnant women.

Why is oral health so important for pregnant women?

Oral health is extremely important for pregnant women and research has suggested that poor oral health can contribute to complications during pregnancy and childbirth. Studies have revealed a link between gum disease and premature birth, miscarriage and even stillbirth. It is believed that the harmful bacteria responsible for gum disease when entering the bloodstream can cause inflammation, which could trigger premature labour.

Pregnant women are susceptible to oral health conditions due to pregnancy hormones in the body, which increase the risk of diseases such as gum disease. If left untreated, oral health diseases can develop and can potentially be very harmful as studies confirm.

Advice for pregnant women

Dental experts are eager to raise awareness of the importance of good oral health for pregnant women and free dental care is available on the NHS for all pregnant women and women who have given birth within the last 12 months. Regular check-ups are essential for good oral health and dentists advise all their patients to have a check-up every six to twelve months, however, regular examinations are especially important for women who are expecting. If you are pregnant, you should see your dentist on a regular basis and stick to a good daily oral hygiene routine. If you notice symptoms, such as bleeding gums, sore gums or swelling, you should arrange to see your dentist as soon as possible.

Preventing oral health diseases

There are a few steps you can take to reduce your risk of oral health diseases. You can make a dramatic difference to your oral health by spending just a few minutes a day cleaning your teeth. A good daily oral hygiene routine should include brushing the teeth twice a day for at least two minutes each time, rinsing with mouthwash and using floss to tackle hard to reach areas. If you have any questions about oral hygiene or oral hygiene products, ask your dentist.