07/11/2025
In pursuit of understanding my proximity to the perinatal mental health space, people often ask, “Why?”
To them, I say, “Why not?” Science has continually evolved as researchers delve deeper into understanding the human body. It’s now clear that from head to toe, our systems are interconnected, and their health is influenced by both individual care and collective harmony.
The science of dental medicine aligns with this holistic view. Regarding mothers and their babies, here’s what I know:
1. During pregnancy, untreated dental disease—such as periodontal disease—has been associated with adverse birth outcomes like preterm birth, low birth weight, and increased NICU admissions (Riaz et al., 2020).
2. Inflammation caused by periodontal disease can contribute to preterm labor and low birth weight, adding stress and strain on the mother, which can negatively influence her mental health (Gauthier et al., 2019).
3. Prevention through early dental care and education has been shown to improve outcomes and reduce risks (Kumar et al., 2021).
4. Pregnancy-related factors—morning sickness, cravings, and oral aversions—can make maintaining oral health more challenging, increasing the risk of decay and gum disease (Glick et al., 2021).
5. Education empowers mothers to navigate these challenges and prioritize oral health, benefitting both their well-being and their baby’s development (NICE, 2016).
Based on these pillars of knowledge, I see how bridging gaps in care and involving dentists in the perinatal space can be part of the solution.
Oral health journeys for all begin in utero. We must educate and advocate for the oral health of pregnant women to support better birth outcomes. Healthy babies contribute to maternal recovery, creating a positive cycle that benefits long-term health, nutrition, lactation, orofacial development, and mental health.
When we recognize this, it becomes clear: supporting maternal mental health and oral health together is essential for fostering healthier families and stronger communities.
