Cavities in Babies Linked to Mother’s Vitamin D Levels During Pregnancy

 www.adelbergpediatricdental.com

Expectant mothers please note, a recent study has linked low levels of vitamin D during pregnancy with the development of cavities in babies. Previous studies have also shown that vitamin D deficiency during pregnancy can increase the risk of tooth decay.

Published last week in Pediatrics, the study analyzed expectant mothers from an economically disadvantaged urban area. The results showed a direct relationship between low vitamin D levels in mothers and higher numbers of cavities in their toddles, as well as defects in the tooth enamel.

Researchers encourage prevention efforts during pregnancy - either by dietary intake or supplementation with vitamin D. If you are expecting, be sure to discuss with your doctor your vitamin D levels and if taking extra supplements is right for you. You can also maintain proper vitamin D the natural way - by enjoying the sun or choosing foods such as wild salmon, ahi tuna,  mushrooms, and eggs. Reducing your carbohydrate intake also helps reduce the body’s need for vitamin D.

For more information on the study view this article ». And don’t forget how important it is to bring your child to the dentist by their first birthday, or six months after the eruption of their first tooth. Infant oral exams are crucial to avoiding serious dental issues that could result in extensive treatment.

Give us a call at any of our locations to schedule your child's first dental visit today!
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How To Care For Your Teeth When You're Expecting

Adelberg Montalvan Pediatric Dental and Orthodontics

www.adelbergpediatricdental.com

Did you know that you could be doing more for your child's health by making sure to take care of your own teeth? In fact, good oral hygiene is incredibly important to expecting mothers.  When a woman learns she’s pregnant, one of the first things she should do is make an appointment with her Dentist.  You may not realize, but your gums are deeply connected to your overall health.

Did you know that Periodontal Disease has been linked to premature labor and low-birth-weight infants?  It’s a scary thought but when you think about it, it makes perfect sense.  The bacteria that accumulate in your gums when they’re in an unhealthy state can travel to your blood stream and cause problems for an expecting mother.  The National Institute of Health defines Periodontitis as“a destructive inflammatory disease of the supporting tissues of the teeth and is caused by specific microorganisms or group of specific microorganisms. “  These microorganisms or bacteria can travel from your gums to the fetus and causes infections.  When this occurs, mothers are more vulnerable to preterm birth and low birth weight babies. 

So, if you’re expecting, make sure you check in with your Dentist.  Pediatric Dental Care starts with healthy moms! 

To book your child’s next dental appointment, contact us today !

For more information on how to care for your teeth when pregnant, check out this great infographic below, courtesy of Rusnak Dentistry: