Women can anticipate significant changes to their body during pregnancy. But did you know that pregnancy can affect oral health, and that infections in the mouth can impact pregnancy?
A growing body of research has found a connection between pregnancy and poor oral health. That is why doctors, dentists, physician assistants, nurses and hygienists urge expectant mothers to visit their dentist at least once during pregnancy, and to seek treatment if they have gum disease.
Increased hormones during pregnancy can affect a woman’s response to cavity-causing germs and gingivitis. While at the same time, studies have found that pregnant women with gum disease experienced a higher rate of prenatal complications, including pre-term labor, low-birth weight and gestational diabetes.
Recognizing that access to preventive care and early dental treatment can improve health outcomes and lower annual medical costs, the Washington State Legislature is currently considering SB 5540, which would allow the Health Care Authority to conduct a three-year pilot program that would expand dental care access for low-income pregnant women.
Lawmakers hope that targeted dental care investments will lead to better health for mother and infant, while potentially saving the state money.
And good oral health benefits mother and child long after birth.
Babies are born free of the cavity-causing bacteria called Streptococcus mutans. But the bacteria can pass from mom to baby through the transfer of saliva, such as sucking pacifiers clean, blowing on food, sharing utensils and even kissing. If left untreated, the bacteria could remain in the child’s mouth for years, impacting primary and permanent teeth.
That is why health professionals and children’s advocates also support SB 5540. Early access to dental care can lead to better long-term health for pregnant women and their children.
Please urge your representative to support smart investments in dental care access by clicking here.
And click here to learn more about SB 5540.
Oral Health Watch
3 hours ago
Providing oral health care access for lower-income workers can make a profound difference in health and quality of life. Bad breath, tooth loss, and visible decay can significantly impact employment opportunities for working adults with:
✅decreased confidence
✅increased absenteeism
... ✅lower productivity
✅potential negative perceptions by employers, colleagues and customers. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
24 hours ago
Access to preventive and restorative oral health care is highly effective and saves money, sparing people from needless pain and expensive hospital emergency department visits that don't have the equipment or trained staff to address the root causes of oral disease. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
1 days ago
Access to preventive and restorative oral health care is highly effective and saves money, sparing people from needless pain and expensive hospital emergency department visits that don't have the equipment or trained staff to address the root causes of oral disease. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
2 days ago
An overwhelming majority of public health organizations, including the Cleveland Clinic, support community water fluoridation as a cost-effective, equitable and beneficial way to improve oral health. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
2 days ago
An overwhelming majority of public health organizations, including the @clevelandclinic, support community water fluoridation as a cost-effective, equitable and beneficial way to improve oral health. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
5 days ago
Everyone deserves to enjoy the benefits of good oral health. Apple Health (Washington state's Medicaid program) dental coverage makes it possible for lower-income residents of all ages to access the preventive and restorative dental care they need to maintain healthy, fruitful lives. ...#teethmatter #waleg