Many of my peers and clients know, I am a Registered Dental Hygienist of more than 20 years as well as a Lactation Consultant. Many have asked me how did I get into Lactation from Dentistry. Well there is a direct correlation to the two medical professions and I will explain how. In dental school, dentists and dental hygienists study all the structures in the head and neck extensively, to include the muscles, nerves and bones that impact oral function and health. In general it is important to practice good dental hygiene and visit the dentist regularly. Oral health is very important to the breastfeeding mom and baby. Good oral health is part of total body health as it is the pathway to the body. Pregnant and breastfeeding moms need preventive care to avoid possible decay and infection that can cause other systemic issues in the body, which can sometimes lead to premature labor if not treated.
Breastfeeding has been shown to help develop the dental structures such as the hard and soft palate. Research has shown that the lack of breastfeeding leads to the underdevelopment of the muscles as well as impact the oral cavity, which can be associated with dental malocclusions. Examples of dental malocclusions are overbite, overjet and crossbite, often leading to the need for correction with braces.
Tongue ties in non breastfed babies can sometimes go undiagnosed and can lead to difficulties with chewing food, swallowing, speech impediments and sleep apnea. Tongue ties can sometimes go undiagnosed until late adolescence into early adulthood. However, tongue ties in the breastfed baby can be diagnosed as soon as birth and could possibly be corrected much earlier to prevent trauma to the breastfeeding mother and improve latch.
It is very important to visit the dentist and dental hygienist every 6 months for preventive care.
(www.phys.org/news/2019-07-teeth-capsule-reveals-million-years.html)