Prevenzione delle patologie orali in gravidanza e salute orale del nascituro

Oral health care in pregnancy is often avoided and misunderstood by physicians, dentists and patients. Physiologic changes in the mouth that occur during pregnancy are well documented. Hormonal effects on the gums gingiva may cause tooth mobility and gingivitis. Other dental-related complications during pregnancy include xerostomia, pyogenic granuloma and tooth erosion. Literature suggests that some prenatal oral conditions may have adverse consequences for the child: periodontitis is associated to preterm birth and low birth weight (LBW); and high levels of cariogenic bacteria in mothers can lead to an increased caries risk in infants. Since periodontal disease may be a risk factor for LBW, pregnancy healthcare professionals should be increasingly aware of the importance of the mothers' oral health. There is strong evidence that mothers are a primary source of colonization of cariogenic bacteria in their children, especially Streptococcus mutans (Sm). As clinical studies have shown, caries risk in children is correlated to the precocity and the amount of transmission of cariogenic bacteria. Strategies for the prevention of dental caries should include timely control of colonization of the cariogenic bacteria in the mouths of young children, through prenatal use of fluoride supplementations and antibacterial compounds. It is important to understand that a healthy oral environment is the main oral objective for pregnant patients. The aim of this article is to draw attention to the importance of oral health of pregnant women and to suggest possible preventive recommendations.