Baby’s Teeth During Pregnancy Orange County

Although baby teeth take a few months to appear, the development starts in the prenatal stage when the baby is still in his mother’s belly. The primary teeth start developing in the second month of pregnancy while the first molars kick development a few weeks later.

It’s important to note that although tooth development starts in prenatal stage, the tooth enamel takes the time to form.

When pregnant women have gum disease, they have a special bacteria residing in their mouth. From there, these bacteria can easily travel to the bloodstream and affect the development of the fetus in the prenatal stage. Sometimes, this could result in premature birth. Baby born in such situation might have low birth weight.

Stress, whether pregnant or not, can cause major issues when it comes to oral health. Many people grind their teeth when they are stressed, which can easily lead to TMJ. It can also cause broken, cracked, or worn tooth.

Additionally, stress can cause mayhem for bacteria (healthy and unhealthy) in the mouth by causing hormonal imbalance in the body.

When a pregnant woman has dental problems, they can affect the baby indirectly, but it cannot infect unborn babies. Poor oral health can cause a plethora of other health issues, which would affect the prenatal development of the baby. It could also result in premature birth and low birth weight.

It’s important that you inform your dentist if you are pregnant or trying to become pregnant. When you are pregnant, your dentist will take special care while treating your dental problems. You shouldn’t be exposed to x-rays, and other radiations and your dentist will suggest medication after consideration the prenatal development of your baby and your health.

Dental procedures are safe as they don’t cause premature delivery. However, patients with gum disease can often deliver the baby prematurely.

It’s not true. If you don’t consume enough calcium needed for prenatal development of your baby, your body will take out calcium from your bones, not the teeth.

While the primary (baby) teeth start forming during the first month of pregnancy, first permanent teeth (molars) start their initial development during the fifth month of pregnancy. The tooth enamel starts forming later.

Taking additional fluoride supplements during pregnancy will not affect baby’s teeth. To support proper tooth development in the fetus, pregnant women should try to eat a nutrient-rich diet and live a healthy lifestyle. If you want to take supplements, consult with your doctor. Only take supplements when recommended by your doctor.

Breastfeeding plays a vital role in the healthy development of muscle and bones. Babies fed with breast milk usually have a stronger immune system. When it comes to tooth development, breastfeeding doesn’t offer any advantage over the bottle-fed babies.

Prolonged breastfeeding doesn’t cause any oral health issues in babies. It doesn’t give rise to cavities. However, it’s important that mothers clean their baby’s gums with a soft cloth after breastfeeding or bottle-feeding them to remove sugars and discourage bacteria growth.