CHICAGO, Illinois – Can an expectant mother do anything to help assure a proper start for the development of her child's teeth?
What you eat during pregnancy affects the development of your unborn baby's teeth. A well-balanced diet is highly recommended. Vitamins A, C, D, protein, calcium, and phosphorus are crucial to the general health and dental development of your child.
- During the fifth or sixth week of pregnancy, the "buds" appear from which the primary teeth develop.
- Between the third and sixth month of pregnancy, the enamel on your baby's primary teeth begins to form.
- At birth, your baby has a full set of completely formed primary tooth crowns under the gums, as well as a set of permanent teeth in varying stages of development.
It is critical that new mothers pay strict attention to their own oral health. It is possible for a mother to pass cavity-causing bacteria from her mouth to her infant.
SOURCE: American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry [3]
