Perinatal and Infant Oral Health: Research, Policies and Practice

In recent years, much attention has been drawn to the association between periodontal disease and perinatal outcomes, as well as the transmission of streptococcus mutans from mother/caretaker to child. The oral health community, along with other key professional stakeholders recognize the implications of oral disease among pregnant women and their offspring, and thus the importance of attaining and maintaining perinatal and infant oral health. This session will provide an update on the state of the science as it relates to the two primary oral diseases that affect pregnant women, infants and toddlers as well as current policies and practices for preventing and managing oral diseases among these groups. Gaps in the research, policy and practice will also be identified followed by a discussion of key messages to promote and improve the oral health of pregnant women, infants and young children.