Application of the Perinatal Oral Health Guidelines in Clinical Practice

ABSTRACT

While dental treatment during pregnancy is safe, pregnant women go to the dentist less frequently than women who are not pregnant. methods: Practical strategies to reduce barriers to care based on the guidelines are presented. results: Collaboration with perinatal providers is critical to refer pregnant women into dental care. Recommendations regarding timing of care, treatment sequence, and patient positioning will help providers deliver care. conclusion: Practical implementation of the guidelines can increase access to dental care for pregnant women and improve the oral health of the pregnant woman and her child.

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Notes on contributors

Irene Hilton

Irene V. Hilton, DDS, MPH, is a clinical dentist at the San Francisco Department of Public Health.