Can dental care during pregnancy really impact your baby's health? Join me, Florence, as I crack open the myths and present the facts on this crucial yet often ignored topic. Discover why maintaining good dental hygiene is more important than ever during pregnancy, despite outdated beliefs linking gum disease to preterm birth being debunked by recent studies like the meta-analysis from Norway. We'll delve into the specifics of increased risks like gingivitis and tooth erosion, and highlight the invaluable UK's maternity exemption certificate for free dental care.

In this episode, I emphasize pregnancy as a golden opportunity to establish lifelong oral hygiene habits, benefiting both mother and child. Learn how maternity professionals can play a pivotal role in guiding expectant mothers towards essential dental services and why this conversation is vital for future generations. We also tackle the alarming rates of dental caries in young children and the regional disparities that persist, advocating for broader health discussions that could transform community health outcomes. Don't miss this enlightening episode that bridges the gap between dental care and maternity health!

Want to know more?
https://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/8/3/e018556
https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/committee-opinion/articles/2013/08/oral-health-care-during-pregnancy-and-through-the-lifespan
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/child-oral-health-applying-all-our-health/child-oral-health-applying-all-our-health

Thank you all for listening, My name is Florence Wilcock I am an NHS doctor working as an obstetrician, specialising in the care of both mother and baby during pregnancy and birth. If you have enjoyed my podcast please do continue to subscribe, rate, review and recommend my podcast on your podcast provider.
If you have found my ideas helpful whilst expecting your baby or working in maternity care please spread the word & help theobspod reach other parents or staff who may be interested in exploring all things pregnancy and birth.
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Its easy to explore my back catalogue of episodes here https://padlet.com/WhoseShoes/TheObsPod I have a wide range of topics that may help you make decisions for yourself and your baby during pregnancy as well as some more reflective episodes on life as a doctor.
If you want to get in touch to suggest topics, I love to hear your thoughts and ideas. You can find out more about me on Twitter @FWmaternity & @TheObsPod as well as Instagram @TheObsPod and e...