skip to main content

Women’s Oral Health in Pregnancy

Surprising Oral Health Links for Moms

Oral Health is often ignored in pregnancy. Despite serious health risks, only 50% of women in the U.S. visit a dentist during pregnancy. One of the most surprising links is between the mother’s untreated dental caries and her child’s oral health. Did you know that the bacteria from the pregnant mother’s untreated tooth decay can be vertically transmitted to her unborn baby as well as from mother to child through spoon sharing and kissing the child on the lips? Each of these scenarios increases the child’s risk of developing dental caries.

Please inform your dental provider when you are pregnant to support safe oral care and optimal maternal health.

Learn more in the infographic below.