There is a misconception among some health care professionals that preventive and restorative dental treatment during pregnancy is not safe, and is therefore not advised. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Good oral health can improve the health and well-being of pregnant women, and it contributes to improving the health and well-being of their children as well.
According to evidence-based guidelines from the California Dental Association Foundation “prevention, diagnosis and treatment of oral diseases, including needed dental radiographs and use of local anesthesia, are highly beneficial and can be undertaken during pregnancy with no additional fetal or maternal risk when compared to the risk of not providing care.” And the American Academy of Pediatrics states that “assessment of oral health risks in infants and young children with appropriate follow-up and treatment, along with anticipatory guidance for parents and other caregivers, has the potential to prevent early childhood caries.” It’s also vitally important that health care providers understand that the bacteria that cause early childhood caries can be transmitted from mother to child, and that early colonization of these bacteria in the child’s mouth puts the child at greater risk of early childhood caries.
IHI specializes in helping oral health practices understand and implement evidence-based strategies through consultations and practice assessments. Contact us for a conversation about the possibilities for your practice. Call: 866-945-7577.