Benefits of Regular Dental Check-ups during Pregnancy
[M.D.S. (Ortho), Fellow ICOI]
Are you aware that prenatal care includes your dental care as well?
Your teeth and gums can be affected by the changes that pregnancy brings about. It increases a woman’s risk of developing oral health issues. Taking care of your teeth and gums during pregnancy can keep you from getting further severe complications such as tooth loss, dental caries, and gum diseases. Continue reading to learn about how pregnancy can impact your oral health and to be aware and informed about regular dental check-ups throughout the pregnancy.
What Causes Dental Problems During Pregnancy?
Dental problems during pregnancy are primarily caused by hormonal changes and physiological alterations. The following are some of the oral health issues associated with pregnancy:
Morning Sickness: Vomiting and acid reflux occur often during pregnancy and can harm your tooth enamel. This acid disturbs the normal structure of your tooth enamel and causes tooth erosion.
Teeth Sensitivity: The acids in vomit can lead to tooth sensitivity, and over time, they can wear away the protective layers of your teeth, making the tooth roots more vulnerable to sensitivity.
Bleeding gums: When you’re pregnant, higher hormone levels make your gums more prone to increased blood flow, which can attract bacteria and lead to gum inflammation. Hormone imbalances during pregnancy can also contribute to gum inflammation. If not addressed, swollen gums can progress to the point of bleeding.
Dental Abscess: Your mouth naturally contains bacteria, and if you don’t keep up with proper oral care during pregnancy, these bacteria can harm the inner part of your teeth, leading to the formation of a pus-filled gum condition known as a dental abscess.
Food Cravings: Pregnant women often have strong cravings for various types of food. Leftover bits of these foods can get stuck between the teeth, raising the chances of getting cavities.
Missed oral routine: When your hormones go up and down, it can make you feel really tired, and that can sometimes make you forget or not bother with taking care of your teeth properly. This can lead to plaque accumulation which increases the risk of:
- tooth decay
- Bad breath
- Severe gum disease conditions such as gingivitis and periodontics.
How Regular Dental Check-ups Benefit Pregnant Women?
Regular dental check-ups can make a big difference for pregnant women.
Regular dental check-ups during pregnancy with your dentist can help you to fix the problems mentioned earlier. Dentists can educate expectant mothers on proper oral care during pregnancy, including advice on brushing, flossing, and diet. They can also recommend safe dental procedures and treatments during pregnancy.
Getting regular check-ups can also prevent you from further oral complications such as gingivitis, tooth decay, and other gum-related diseases.
Benefits of Dental check-ups throughout Pregnancy:
Regular dental check-ups during pregnancy offer several significant benefits:
- Early detection of your dental problems and a better prevention plan to address further oral complications.
- Helps you to manage ongoing dental treatments such as gingivitis, reducing gum inflammation, bleeding, and discomfort.
- Dentists can provide personalized guidance on maintaining oral hygiene, including proper brushing and flossing techniques, and recommend safe dental products for pregnancy.
- Teeth cleaning procedures performed during dental check-ups can identify and treat dental caries, preventing potential tooth decay.
- With more false guidance and posts on the internet, visiting your dentist can help you get trusted information on oral health education and practices.
- Proper oral care during pregnancy can significantly enhance the overall well-being of both you and your baby, promoting a healthier pregnancy.
If you are expecting and concerned about safer dental procedures, getting dental treatments during pregnancy is perfectly safe for both the baby and you.
Tips to maintain a healthy mouth and smile throughout pregnancy:
1. Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste gently: Clean your teeth regularly with a soft toothbrush and toothpaste that contains fluoride.
2. Floss a few times a week: Use dental floss regularly to remove food bits and plaque stuck between your teeth. Rinsing your mouth with salt water can help ease sensitive teeth.
3. Ask your dentist about a special mouthwash: Your dentist might recommend a specific mouthwash to prevent gum problems.
4. Eat lots of fruits and leafy greens: Make the most of your diet by including fruits and green, leafy vegetables for good health.
5. Have smaller meals more often: Eating smaller meals throughout the day can help you maintain a healthy weight.
6. Avoid sugary drinks and processed foods: Stay away from sodas and packaged snacks, which are not good for your teeth or your health.
7. If you have tooth pain, see a dentist. In case of sudden tooth pain, visit your dentist as soon as possible.
8. Schedule regular dental check-ups: Visit the dentist both before and during your pregnancy to keep your oral health in check.
Takeaway
Many research studies have shown a link between not taking care of your teeth and having trouble during pregnancy. When women are pregnant, their hormones can cause more dental problems, especially due to higher levels of estrogen and progesterone. So, pregnant women need to see their dentist to prevent and address their dental problems.
If you’re having any dental issues related to pregnancy, see your dentist as soon as you can. Also, make sure to tell your dentist that you’re expecting a baby so they can provide the right treatment for you.
