Pregnancy
Pregnancy changes your body in many ways, so it’s not surprising that it can also affect your gums and teeth. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can increase your risk of developing gum disease.
Any infection is cause for concern when you’re pregnant because it also risks your baby’s health. Untreated gum disease allows bacteria to move from the mouth into the bloodstream. This inflammation can also increase the risk of having a preterm baby with low birth weight. Treating gum inflammation during pregnancy can reduce the risk of a baby being born preterm by 50%.
Tooth decay and erosion are also possible because there’s more acid in your mouth than usual, especially if you experience morning sickness often. The higher hormone levels typical during pregnancy can also temporarily affect the tissues and bones that keep your teeth in place, resulting in the loosening of teeth.
Dental hygiene
Good oral health habits can reduce your risk of gum disease, so be sure to brush with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily. Also, rinse your mouth with water or mouthwash if morning sickness makes you feel too sick to brush your teeth.
Dental checkups
We know you have a lot to think about when you’re pregnant, but it’s important to include prenatal dental care on your to-do list. Getting regular dental checkups will help you maintain good oral health. Your dentist can treat dental problems that might affect your pregnancy before they become more serious. They will also create an oral health plan to help ensure a healthy pregnancy.
A unique program that supports better overall health—at no extra cost
If you’re expecting, our Oral Health for Overall HealthSM program’s preventive dental services, outreach and education, and integrated medical care programs can improve the health of you and your baby.
These valuable services are available to enrolled members at no extra cost when visiting a participating provider. Program benefits include receiving two additional cleanings or preventive visits per year (a total of four).
If you’re pregnant and have health and dental plans from Florida Blue, you’re automatically enrolled. If you don’t have a health plan with Florida Blue, you can easily enroll online.
Once enrolled, all you need to do is make an appointment with a participating dentist.