Babies, Parenting, Child Health, Infant Nutrition

Baby Health – American academy of Pediatric Dentistry Releases New Perinatal and Infant Oral Health Guidelines

02.07.2009 | 2:43:39 pm | Posted by admin

By Colleen Hurley, RD, Certified Kid’s Nutrition Specialist

Most expecting women are aware that a healthy diet during pregnancy can positively influence the baby’s health. One fact some mothers might not know is that oral health can impact an unborn baby as well. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) baby development, parenting recently announced new perinatal oral health guidelines for expecting women and their babies.

The AAPD recently met for their annual meeting and arrived upon a new set of guidelines for expecting women urging women to seek oral healthcare during pregnancy. In addition, infants are encouraged to obtain an oral health risk assessment by their first birthday. Both preventative measures can contribute to optimal oral health for mother and baby.

Recent studies have found an association between periodontal disease and increased risk of preterm birth as well as low birth weights. The findings suggested that including periodontal care during pregnancy may improve pregnancy outcomes and should be included as a routine component of prenatal care.

Unfortunately, many pregnant women are unaware of the health implications of poor oral health and may enter into delivery in suboptimal condition. Mother’s with poor oral health may be at higher risk of infecting their newborns with cavity causing bacteria; which in turn sets the baby up for high risk of cavities. The new guidelines also address proper oral care for infants and children while encouraging health care professionals to discuss proper oral health with their patients.

Key components of the new guidelines include:

Oral hygiene: proper brushing and flossing on a daily basis to reduce bacterial plaque which has been linked to both preterm and low birth weight babies
Diet: dietary education including how foods and beverages may affect oral health
Oral health education: early intervention and counseling during pregnancy
Fluoride: use of an AAPD approved fluoridated toothpaste along with nightly rinse with an alcohol free .05% fluoride mouthwash.
Xylitol gum: studies have suggested that mothers chewing about 4 pieces of xylitol gum each day can decrease a child’s risk of cavities
Delay of colonization: educating parents on sharing food, cups, or utensils to decrease the passing of cavity causing bacteria

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