Dental Health and Pregnancy
A woman’s body undergoes many changes during pregnancy. Some pregnant women can develop dental issues such as tooth decay and gum disease during this time. The hormones in your body during the pregnancy can affect the plaque on your teeth, making you more prone to dental issues.
It is important that pregnant women take extra care of their dental health. Practicing good oral health and regular dentist visits are essential for women during their pregnancy.
Effects of Dental Disease on the Development of the Baby
Did you know that dental disease can have an effect on the development of your baby? Studies indicate that periodontal disease can cause preterm delivery with low birth weight. Premature babies are at risk of suffering from health problems like cerebral palsy as well as problems with hearing and eyesight.
Causes of Dental Issues During Pregnancy
There are several reasons why you might face dental issues during pregnancy. Following are some of those issues:
1. Gum Problems
Because of the hormonal changes, some women are at risk of developing gum problems like:
- Gingivitis – inflammation of the gums that can cause bleeding and swelling of the gums.
- Untreated or Undiagnosed Dental Conditions – if you have any untreated or undiagnosed dental condition, there is a chance that it might accelerate during pregnancy because of the hormones.
- Oral Pyogenic Granuloma – in this condition, a small area of the gums gets enlarged, making it susceptible to bleeding.
Get your teeth and gums checked by your dentist if you are pregnant or planning to get pregnant to avoid these issues. Make sure that you have a healthy oral regimen.
2. Vomiting
Morning sickness is a part of pregnancy. The hormonal changes that take place during this time can cause you to get sick and throw up more often. Did you know that this can cause damage to your teeth? Yes, the stomach acids can cling to your teeth while vomiting and cause tooth decay.
To prevent damage to your teeth, rinse your mouth thoroughly. Don’t brush your teeth immediately after throwing up as your enamel is sensitive at the time and can get scratched by your toothbrush. Wait for at least an hour before you brush your teeth.
3. Food Cravings
While some pregnant women craze spicy food, others crave sugary snacks. Sugary snacks can cling to your teeth and increase the bacteria, making your teeth more susceptible to cavities and decay.
Try to curb those cravings with the help of low-sugar snacks. If you can’t resist sugary candies, make sure that you rinse your mouth and brush your teeth immediately after having them.
Teeth Health and Pre-Pregnancy
If you have good oral hygiene habits, you will be at a reduced risk of getting dental problems during pregnancy. Good dental habits include:
- Brushing twice a day
- Flossing daily
- Keeping up with your dentist appointments
If you are facing dental problems during pregnancy, let your doctor know about them. They will be able to provide suitable treatment and guide you on how to care of your teeth during this period.
For more information about your dental health, or if you have any questions about dental health during your pregnancy, give Smile Brightly Dental a call. We can be reached at 586-573-7700!