Pregnancy is a special time in woman’s life when she’s more in tune with her body than ever. In addition to the typical symptoms that accompany pregnancy, expectant mothers should pay close attention to their oral health. There are certain oral conditions specific to pregnancy, and some can cause further problems if not treated.
Going to the dentist during pregnancy is highly recommended by obstetricians and dentists alike. Your oral health is more important than ever when you have a bun in the oven. Just like you need to eat a healthy diet, you also need to keep your mouth healthy. Think of it as you’re eating, brushing, and flossing for two! Fun fact – According to mouthhealthy.org, your baby’s teeth begin to develop between the third and sixth months of pregnancy, and eating well can help them form correctly.
Here are some ways that pregnancy can affect your oral health.
Loose teeth: If your teeth feel slightly loose, don’t panic, or even worse…try pulling them. Your body’s levels of progesterone and estrogen can loosen the ligaments and bones that keep your teeth in place, similar to the rest of your body. This can happy even with a healthy mouth, and your teeth should stop wiggling after giving birth. If loose teeth cause extra anxiety, or if a tooth actually falls out, please see your dentist.
Morning sickness: Feeling nauseous is probably one of the worst pregnancy symptoms. Tossing your cookies can do a number on your mouth, particularly your pearly whites. Stomach acid can erode tooth enamel, which can lead to increased risk of tooth decay. If you find yourself spending too much time hugging the toilet bowl, ask your dentist for a safe mouth wash to rinse your mouth frequently. Something fresh and minty might also ease the nausea.
Periodontal disease: It’s not uncommon for pregnant women to experience bleeding gums on occasion. This is due to the fluctuation in pregnancy hormones that can cause inflamed and sensitive gums. It’s called “pregnancy gingivitis” and usually resolves after delivery. Periodontal disease, which consists of infections of the structures (gums) around the teeth, is much more serious. It poses a higher risk for preterm birth and low birth rate. Proper treatment can significantly reduce the risk for prenatal and postnatal problems for both mother and baby.
Pregnancy tumors: This sounds quite scary, but it’s really not. These harmless “tumors” are really just small, painless bumps on the gums that can be red, pink, or purple. They are definitely one of those things that are just gross but not worrisome. Pregnancy tumors are due to irritation from bacteria (plaque) in the mouth. Like with many other unpleasant pregnancy symptoms, they vanish shortly after delivery.
When it comes to dental procedures, cleanings are completely safe during pregnancy. In fact, your dentist may even recommend them more frequently to keep your mouth in tip top shape. If you need dental x-rays during pregnancy, your baby bump will be covered with a lead apron for protection. Most procedures such a fillings and crowns are typically safe during pregnancy. It might be a good idea to get those things done in the earlier months to avoid sitting uncomfortably in the dentist’s chair when you’re about to pop. Also, it’s wise to hold off on cosmetic procedures such as bleaching until after the baby. As always, inform your dentist if you are pregnant and of any medications or supplements, including prenatal vitamins, that you are taking.
If you are expecting or planning on becoming pregnant and want to keep your mouth healthy, call us at 954-344-4488, or complete an online appointment request to schedule your consultation.