Dental care is essential for everyone, but it is especially crucial for pregnant women. Pregnancy increases your risk for oral health problems. These problems can negatively impact your pregnancy, causing complications for you and your baby. Therefore, dental care for pregnant women is essential.
Read more to learn what kind of dental problems pregnancy can cause and how to prevent them.
Hormonal changes during pregnancy may increase your risk for these oral problems:
Consuming more sugary foods and beverages due to cravings can make you susceptible to cavities. In addition, the temptation to ignore brushing because you are nauseous or tired can also make you susceptible to cavities. The cavity-causing bacteria can also cause oral health problems for your child in the future.
Vomiting from morning sickness may expose your teeth to excessive stomach acid, which can eat away the tooth enamel. This can cause tooth sensitivity, discoloration, and chipping.
Increased levels of hormones, such as progesterone and estrogen, can temporarily loosen your teeth.
Excessive plaque can cause tender lumps on your gums, leading to discomfort and bleeding. As they are not cancerous lumps, proper dental care can prevent them.
60% to 75% of women have gingivitis during pregnancy due to hormonal changes. Red, tender, and swollen gums can lead to serious gum disease, infections, and tooth loss if left untreated.
Related blog: Gum Disease: What Are the Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment?
Follow these tips to maintain good oral health during pregnancy:
Brush twice every day with fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Floss at least once a day to remove cavity-causing plaque and bacteria between your teeth.
If brushing causes nausea, rinse your mouth with a solution of one teaspoon baking soda and one cup of water. You can take antacids to reduce acidity in your mouth further. However, discuss it with your doctor before taking antacids.
Eating more fruits and vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy products, and lean meats provides you and your baby essential nutrients that promote good oral health. Limit the intake of sugary beverages and foods to reduce your risk for a cavity.
Visiting your dentist for your routine dental appointment is essential during pregnancy. Inform your dentist about your pregnancy, the medications you are taking, and any complications involved during your visit. Also, inform them about any changes you notice with your teeth and gums. This will help your dentist customize your treatment plan accordingly.
Proper dental care and routine dental checkups are essential during pregnancy to detect and treat oral problems earlier. To receive the best dental care during pregnancy, schedule an appointment with our dentist in West Des Moines.
