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. 2011 Mar-Apr;56(2):110-7.
doi: 10.1111/j.1542-2011.2010.00022.x. Epub 2011 Feb 28.

Referrals for dental care during pregnancy

Megan K Kloetzel  1 , Colleen E Huebner, Peter Milgrom
Affiliations

Referrals for dental care during pregnancy

Megan K Kloetzel et al. J Midwifery Womens Health. 2011 Mar-Apr.

Abstract

Oral health is essential to overall health in the prenatal period. Pregnancy is not a time to delay dental care. Several studies have shown an association between periodontal disease and poor pregnancy outcomes including preterm birth. Interventions to provide periodontal treatment to pregnant women yield inconsistent results regarding preterm birth but have established the safety of periodontal therapy during pregnancy. Postpartum women in poor dental health readily transmit the tooth decay pathogen Streptococcus mutans from their saliva to their infants, resulting in increased risk of early childhood caries. Preventive services and treatment for acute problems should be recommended, fears allayed, and women referred. Dental radiographs may be performed safely with the use of appropriate shielding. Nonemergent interventions are best provided between 14 and 20 weeks' gestation for comfort and optimal fetal safety. Most gravid women do not seek dental care. Increased interprofessional communication to encourage dentists to treat pregnant women will reduce the number of women without care. In states where it is available, Medicaid coverage of dental services for pregnant women is typically allowed during pregnancy and for 2 months postpartum. Women's health providers should understand the importance of protecting oral health during pregnancy and educate their patients accordingly.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1. Guidelines for Oral Health Care in Pregnancy
Figure 1
Figure 1. Guidelines for Oral Health Care in Pregnancy
See this image and copyright information in PMC

References

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