Intervention of the pediatric dentist in obstetric hosptila care

Abstract

Introduction: The relationship between oral health status during pregnancy, specifically periodontal disease and the predisposition to preeclampsia and premature birth, has been proven in recent decades, encouraging dentists, especially periodontists, to become involved in the care of pregnant women. Positive and negative events occurring during gestation influence not only odontogenesis, but evidence also suggests that dietary habits, such as a preference for sugary foods, may be determined as early as intrauterine life. Conditions such as early childhood caries and enamel defects have become real challenges for pediatric dentists. Being able to intervene during pregnancy through prenatal oral health education, providing timely guidance, and coordinating the baby’s first oral examination could be a response to these issues. Objective: To promote the inclusion of the pediatric dentist in the multidisciplinary team providing care to pregnant women in the hospital setting. Conclusions: Now more than ever, it is necessary for pediatric dentists to be integrated into the healthcare team that cares for pregnant women. Evidence indicates that an infant’s oral health is strongly linked to both the systemic and oral health of the mother, and that the earlier we intervene, the more favorable the outcomes will be.