Why is this so important for baby teeth? During pregnancy, a woman’s hormone levels rise and gingivitis is common. Serious gum disease in the mother has been linked to low birth-weight babies and premature births. Crowns of the baby teeth are developing and chewing surfaces of the permanent molars are beginning to form during pregnancy. A balanced diet and use of prenatal vitamins help to develop healthy teeth, while poor nutrition can be associated with tooth decay.

Tooth cavity-causing bacteria can be transmitted to the fetus, so it is important to reduce plaque and have teeth free of decay before the birth of a child.

If you are pregnant, be sure to visit your dentist regularly and have your teeth cleaned more often. At birth, bacteria may also be transmitted by a mother kissing her newborn child. Your dentist may recommend the use of chlorhexidine mouth rinse or products containing xylitol.