440 - Preventing Teen Pregnancy as Pediatric Dentists and Public Health Professionals

Teen pregnancy poses unique oral health challenges for both mother and baby. It increases the risks of gingivitis, periodontitis, and caries, which can impact the fetus and cause birth complications. Poor maternal oral hygiene and untreated cavities can lead to vertical transmission of cariogenic bacteria to infants, increasing the risk of early childhood caries. Additionally, teen pregnancy has significant social and psychological impacts, contributing to the cycle of poverty and exacerbating poor health outcomes. This systematic review explores the role of pediatric dentists as part of an interdisciplinary health care team in addressing these challenges. In addition to provide family education, caries and periodontal disease risk assessments, prevention and management of oral diseases, and anticipatory guidance, pediatric dentists should also advocate for improved social, political, and economic environments to ensure teen access to services supporting healthy choices, essential to disrupting the cycle of teen pregnancy, poverty, and oral health disparities.  


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