Dental care is important at every stage of life for overall health, but it’s especially critical during pregnancy. This is because the growing fetus takes a lot of nutrients, which can increase the likelihood of cavities or gum disease. These issues, left untreated, can potentially affect the pregnancy, as well as other aspects of your health.
Fortunately, these issues are easily avoided by maintaining a good dental care regimen, along with regular checkups with your family dentist. In this article, we discuss how pregnancy affects oral health, and what you can do to take care of yourself and your growing baby.
How Pregnancy Affects Dental Health
Many changes are happening to your body during pregnancy, here are just a few examples of how these changes can affect your oral health:
Eating Habits Change
Many women experience a change in eating habits during pregnancy. Foods they once enjoyed now may make them feel nauseous, while other foods that they don’t normally like may suddenly taste delicious. Additionally, some women develop pregnancy-induced pica, which is the craving for non-food items. If you find yourself craving and even eating items that aren’t food, talk to your provider right away, as these can affect your developing baby.
Increased Hormones
Almost everything that feels strange or different in pregnancy can be blamed on hormones. During pregnancy, progesterone and estrogen levels increase, which can increase the risk for oral health problems. These hormones are also the culprit behind morning sickness and excessive vomiting can cause dental problems, as stomach acid can wear away the enamel on the teeth.
You May Brush Or Floss Less
Pregnancy can make your teeth and gums feel more tender than usual. The slightest provocation from a toothbrush or dental floss can cause bleeding. For other women, brushing or flossing can even trigger feelings of nausea. While maintaining good oral health practices is important, it’s understandable why these habits may temporarily fall by the wayside.
Common Dental Problems During Pregnancy
Dentists frequently see the following issues in their pregnant patients:
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is a condition that causes inflammation of the gums. It’s one of the most common dental issues in most patients, pregnant or not, but especially common for pregnant women. Left untreated, it can lead to gum disease. Pregnancy hormones increase the risk of gingivitis, so it’s important to maintain regular dental checkups or call your dentist if you notice your gums are red, swollen, painful, or bleeding.
Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease can happen when gingivitis goes untreated. Periodontal disease is an infection in the gums and bones that support the teeth, which can lead to loosened teeth. This disease can lead to bacteria in the bloodstream if not treated promptly, so call your dentist immediately if your painful gums don’t get any better.
Loose Teeth
Estrogen and progesterone can temporarily loosen the bones and tissues holding your teeth in place, if you notice loose teeth, call your dentist immediately.
Tooth Erosion
Stomach acid from vomiting as a result of morning sickness can eventually wear away at your teeth. Some women may suffer from a condition called hyperemesis gravidarum, or HG, which is excessive vomiting that may lead to weight loss and extreme dehydration. This condition may require hospitalization, so it’s important to seek help from your OBGYN as well as your dentist.
Preventing Dental Issues In Pregnancy
Dental problems may worsen in pregnancy, but they are preventable and treatable. Keep those regular appointments throughout your pregnancy, and be sure to mention any concerns to your dentist, including:
- Any medications you take, as these, can also affect oral health (this includes supplements and over-the-counter vitamins)
- If your pregnancy is considered high-risk
- Whether your OBGYN has mentioned concerns about your oral health
Regular dental checkups are important for maintaining overall health, as well as your baby’s health. Your teeth and gums will feel better, and so will you!
Dental Care In South Florida
Eriks Dental Group is proud to serve the families of Boynton Beach, from a child’s first checkup to Grandma’s first set of dentures, everyone in the family is taken care of. Pregnancy is an exciting time, and we’re excited to share that with you!
To speak to one of our friendly, knowledgeable team members, give us a call at 561-733-4004.