The Cipes Pediatric Dentistry baby boom continues! Earlier this week, we had a baby shower for Dr. Chisholm. It got us thinking about how important it is for pregnant women to take care of their teeth.

Babies are born without the bacteria that cause cavities. They get it from saliva that is passed from their caregiver’s mouth to their own. Caregivers can pass on these germs by sharing saliva-by sharing spoons, by testing foods before feeding it to babies, by cleaning off a pacifier in their mouth (instead of with water), and through other activities where saliva is shared. These germs can start the process that causes cavities even before babies have teeth, so it’s important to avoid sharing saliva with your baby right from the start.

By taking care of your own teeth, you will be preventing cavities for your baby. Here are some things you can do…

• Maintain your dental health: Brush and floss your teeth! Also go to your dentist for your regular check-ups. If you have cavities, get them fixed; this helps decrease the bacteria in your mouth.

• Eat healthy foods to reduce the cavity causing germs in your mouth. Fruits, vegetables, whole-grain products, dairy products, lean meats, fish, chicken, eggs, beans, and nuts are good choices.

• Chew xylitol gum 3-7 x/day. This has been shown to decrease the transmission of bacteria from parent to child.

• It’s never too early to start talking to us about infant oral health