May is a celebration of moms in more ways than one—in addition to Mother’s Day, it’s also Pregnancy Awareness Month. At first glance, it may not seem like oral health has much to do with pregnancy, but it’s actually a critical part of it. A mother’s oral health can be correlated with the baby’s overall health, so it’s important to pay close attention to your dental care and any changes that may arise while you’re pregnant.

It seems like everything about your health and body is different during pregnancy, and your mouth is no exception. An abundance of estrogen and progesterone are the culprits behind many of those changes, including sensitive gum tissue. Some women can be affected by pregnancy gingivitis, characterized by redness, swelling, tenderness and bleeding. Fight plaque build-up by brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily, paying special attention to the gum line

Some dental plans may provide enhanced benefits for pregnant women, like extra cleanings, which help prevent and treat conditions like pregnancy gingivitis. Check to see if your plan offers enhanced benefits.

If you have other questions or concerns about dental care or treatment while you’re expecting, be sure to talk with your dentist. It’s also a great time to ask any questions you may have about your baby’s oral health care