We often focus on a mother's dietary habits during pregnancy, from eating good food to taking health supplements. However, one aspect that is frequently overlooked is gum health. Poor oral hygiene can lead to various complications during pregnancy; hence, it is essential to develop healthy oral habits. For children, establishing healthy oral habits at a young age can prevent dental problems and boost their self-confidence.
On this World Oral Health Day, which is observed on 20 March every year, we spoke to Dr Renu Parmar, MDS, Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, Smile Train, Dehradun, who explained the importance of gum health for both mother and child.
Importance of Gum Health in Expecting Mothers
"Pregnant women are generally more prone to oral issues due to hormonal changes that may eventually lead to gum disease, gingivitis, and tooth decay. Poor oral health can lead to grave conditions like preterm delivery, low birth weight, and preeclampsia," explained Dr Parmar.
Untreated gum infections can also spread to other body organs, affecting the mother's organs and impacting the baby's health. A 2022 study found that dental caries and gingivitis were 1.97 times and 1.81 times more common in pregnant women compared to non-pregnant women, respectively.
Also Read: Chewing Gum During Pregnancy May Prevent Premature Deliveries, Expert Insights
Importance of Gum Health in Children
"Oral health plays a crucial role in the overall well-being and development of children. Poor oral hygiene leads to conditions, such as cavities, gum disease, and tooth decay, affecting their eating habits, clear speech, and self-confidence," added Dr Parmar. It has also been seen that children of mothers with untreated cavities or tooth loss are more likely to have dental issues themselves, with a threefold increased risk of cavities.
Gum Health For Babies Born With Cleft
"Every year an estimated 35,000+ new babies in India and 2,00,000+ new babies globally are born with a cleft. Although many children experience dental health issues without proper care, children with clefts require personalised dental care. Their unique needs demand specialised treatment to ensure their teeth, gums, and overall oral health receive the extra attention they need," said Dr Parmar.
A cleft lip and/or palate is a common birth difference that affects the normal growth of the mouth, teeth, and palate, leading to many oral complications, such as tooth decay, and gum problems. "This is also associated with challenges in eating and speaking and may result in the premature loss of teeth if left untreated. Due to their specific oral health needs, children with clefts must have frequent dental visits and access to specialised dental care services," he added.
Also Read: When To Start Brushing Your Baby’s Teeth? Expert Tips on Introducing Toothbrush and Toothpaste
How To Maintain Good Oral Health
- Babies normally begin developing their primary teeth at around six months of age. The best method of cleaning their gums and emerging teeth is to use a soft-bristled toothbrush with a small head and a tiny amount of fluoride toothpaste.
- To eliminate plaque and food particles, pregnant women should brush their teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily to remove food particles.
- Maintaining a balanced diet is also important when taking care of your oral health. Therefore, limit sugary foods and drinks and opt for nutritious foods, such as fruits, vegetables, dairy, and lean proteins to support gum health.
- Regular checkups with the dentist are equally recommended to ensure early detection and treatment.
- It is recommended to quit smoking and alcohol consumption, especially during pregnancy as it can increase the risk of gum disease, and other oral health problems.
- Do not neglect drinking water as it helps flush food particles from the mouth and keeps it hydrated.
- Children with clefts often need orthodontic treatment to manage oral hygiene, straighten teeth, and oversee facial growth. The treatment at different stages of the child's development may be different based on the type of surgeries they have had.
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your professional if you are dealing with any health issue to avoid complications.]