Dental health- the care of your mouth, teeth, and gums- is an important part of your overall health. But maintaining good dental habits during pregnancy is an important part of prenatal healthcare too. Dental health problems can affect your pregnancy, and the changes happening in your body during pregnancy can actually put you at greater risk for having dental health issues. For a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby it is important to take good care of your mouth, teeth and gums.
During pregnancy there are many changes in the body that can affect your dental health. Here are some examples:
Cavities, otherwise known as tooth decay, are small areas of damage on the surface of your teeth. Being pregnant makes you more likely to get cavities and to carry cavity causing bacteria in your mouth. The bacteria can then be passed on to your baby during pregnancy or after birth and may cause your child to have dental problems later in life.
Gingivitis is the redness and swelling of your gums. During pregnancy the hormones in your body increase your risk for gingivitis. In fact, up to 75% of pregnant women experience gingivitis. It is important to treat gingivitis as it can lead to more serious issues like gum disease (periodontitis). Signs of gingivitis include redness and swelling, tenderness of the gums, shiny gums, and bleeding of the gums even when brushed gently.
Periodontal disease (also known as gum disease or periodontitis) comes from untreated gingivitis. Periodontal disease causes a severe infection in the gums that affects the bones that support your teeth. These issues may cause teeth to become loose and need to be pulled. Periodontal disease can also cause an infection in the blood, a serious condition that must be treated immediately.
Pregnancy tumors (also called pyogenic granuloma) in the mouth are not cancerous. They are small, red, raw-looking lumps that form on the gums. They can be caused by an excess of plaque on teeth, but usually go away on their own after giving birth.
Morning sickness that results in vomiting may expose your teeth to too much stomach acid. This acid can be harmful to the enamel of your teeth.
When you are pregnant it is important to stay watchful of the signs and symptoms of your dental health. Signs and symptoms of dental health issues can include:
If you have signs or symptoms of dental health issues it is important to contact your dentist. Call your dentist right away if you have pain, swelling, or signs of an infection. It is important to receive treatment as soon as possible to prevent any problems for your baby.
Scheduling regular dental health checkups before and during pregnancy is a simple way to help prevent dental health issues. At your appointment be sure to talk to your dentist about the following:
Regular dental health checkups allow your dental healthcare provider to identify and treat dental health problems early. Regular teeth cleanings help keep your mouth, teeth, and gums healthy.
Dental x-rays are an essential and standard part of dental healthcare. During pregnancy it is safe to participate in dental x-rays. The x-rays use very small amounts of radiation to observe teeth, gums, and bones. During the x-ray procedure the dentist or technician will cover you with a special cloth to protect you and your baby. Be sure to let your dentist or technician know you are pregnant before participating in any x-rays.
There are many ways you can help to prevent common dental health problems associated with pregnancy.
Brush twice a day using a fluoride toothpaste. Use a toothbrush with soft bristles to be gentle on your more sensitive gums.
Gently floss your teeth once a day. Take extra care to be gentle when working around your gums.
If you find brushing and flossing to be difficult due to nausea or vomiting, you can clean your mouth using a mouth rinse. Add 1 teaspoon of baking soda to one cup of water and use this mixture to rinse your mouth and teeth. Rinsing in this way can help reduce the amount of acid in your mouth.
Limit your sugar intake and eat a variety of healthy foods. This not only helps with your dental health, but the variety of vitamins and minerals help your baby begin developing their own teeth too.
Schedule regular dental checkups with your dentist every 6 months even when you are pregnant. Be sure to tell your dentist about your pregnancy during your visit.
Dental health is an essential part of your prenatal health. Pregnancy can put you at risk for certain dental health issues so be sure to make regular dental health appointments before, during and after your pregnancy for the health of you and your baby. At Dentist of West Covina, we have modern facilities, the latest technology, and a kind, helpful staff ready to help you with all your dental health needs.
Are you pregnant or planning to become pregnant? Let us help! Call our office at (626) 605-6601 to schedule an appointment.
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