Milestones

Before Your Baby Arrives

A balanced diet is critical for the proper development of an unborn child. Teeth begin to form when the mother is between the third and sixth months of pregnancy. A balanced diet, one that provides adequate amounts of vitamins A, C and D, protein, calcium and phosphorous, will provide the nutrients to develop healthy teeth.

You may have heard the tale that a woman loses a tooth for each pregnancy. It's not true! It's a myth that calcium is removed from a mother's teeth during pregnancy. The calcium that a developing baby needs is provided by the mother's diet, not by her teeth. If she received an inadequate amount of calcium in her diet, her body will provide the mineral from her bones. An adequate intake of dairy products, which are the primary source of calcium, or from supplements prescribed by a physician, will ensure that the proper calcium level is obtained.

Pregnant woman may have the desire to eat more frequently between meals. While this is normal, frequent snacking can be an invitation to tooth decay. The decay process begins with plaque, an invisible, sticky layer of harmful bacteria that constantly forms on teeth. The bacteria convert sugar and starched that remain in the mouth to an acid that attacks tooth enamel. Brushing and cleaning between teeth with floss or an interdental cleaner can reduce the risk of decay.

Plaque that is not removed can irritate the gums, making them red, tender, and likely to bleed easily. This condition is called gingivitis and can lead to more serious periodontal disease that affects the gums and bone that anchor teeth in place. During pregnancy, gingivitis may occur more frequently due to a rise in the body's hormone levels. However, plaque -- not changing hormone levels -- is the major cause of gum disease. You can prevent gingivitis by keeping your teeth clean, especially near the gumline.

(Source: www.ada.org. American Dental Association. Chicago. 1997)