The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends pregnant women continue with good oral healthcare standards during pregnancy. A mom’s periodontal disease, known commonly as “gum disease,” can actually impact the unborn baby, increasing the risk of premature birth and low birth weight.

Parents who have less healthy dental habits can actually pass cavity-causing bacteria to their younger children by sharing food, cups and utensils. And don’t forget: Children learn by seeing and hearing what other people do. Moms and dads who visit their dentist twice yearly, brush and floss daily, and use fluoride toothpaste and mouth rinse to reduce plaque, are parents who are setting examples kids are more likely to accept and copy.