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Pregnancy and Dental Care

The Oral Health Section of the American Public Health Association (APHA) has released a new policy statement, Improving Access to Dental Care for Pregnant Women through Education, Integration of Health Services, Insurance Coverage, and Appropriate Dental Workforce, and Research.

Oral diseases during pregnancy can cause pain, nutritional deficiencies, lost workdays, and reduced employability, all of which affect a woman’s quality of life. Pregnant women with gum disease are at increased risk for developing preeclampsia and delivering a preterm or low birth weight infant. Children born to mothers with poor oral health and high levels of oral bacteria are at increased risk for developing dental caries, the most prevalent chronic disease among children in the United States. 

The statement describes this public health problem, opposing arguments, and evidence-based strategies and action steps to address the issue at federal, state, and local levels. We strongly encourage key stakeholders at all levels to use this policy statement to learn about and advocate for improved access to dental care for pregnant women.

View APHA statement here

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