While maintaining a healthy smile is important for everyone, it’s especially crucial for those who are pregnant. Due to the change in hormones that happens during pregnancy, you become more susceptible to oral health conditions that can affect not only you, but the baby as well. Let’s take a look at some of the most common oral health concerns during pregnancy:
One of the oral health conditions you’re more at risk for during pregnancy is gum disease, affecting about 60 to 75% of pregnant women. Without treatment, this inflammation can cause swollen or bleeding gums as well as dry mouth, which can lead to infection and tooth loss. Untreated gum disease has been associated with poor pregnancy outcomes, including preterm birth and low birth weight.
Cavities are also a concern during pregnancy due to a change in eating habits. Pregnant women may experience an increase in the “bad” bacteria that can cause cavities when snacking on certain foods and neglecting to stay on top of their oral health. Untreated cavities can eventually lead to tooth loss. Not only this, but it’s been shown that children of mothers with high levels of untreated cavities or tooth loss are more than three times more likely to have cavities as children.
Both morning sickness and heartburn, two common occurrences during pregnancy, can cause the erosion of tooth enamel. This is due to the harsh stomach acid coming up into your throat and mouth. While your first instinct might be to brush right away, the American Dental Association (ADA) suggests avoiding it immediately after vomiting. Instead, rinse with a diluted solution of one cup of water and one teaspoon of baking soda to neutralize the acid.
Furthermore, pregnancy can cause your joints and tissues to loosen up in preparation for childbirth, potentially leading to loose teeth.
If you’re wondering if you can still see your dentist while pregnant, the answer is yes! Taking care of your teeth and gums is an absolute must during pregnancy, as studies have linked maternal oral health to conditions like preeclampsia as well as to a healthy birth weight. Both the Office on Women’s Health and the ADA stress the importance of maintaining routine visits to the dentist during pregnancy to help protect your teeth — so schedule an appointment with your dentist today!
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