Pregnancy dental care is something that you should be taking seriously. Many dental conditions can worsen during pregnancy. Your dental health is just as important to your unborn baby as it is for yourself. In this blog post, we will discuss the dental risks of pregnancy and how to maintain a healthy smile throughout the nine months!

How Pregnancy Affects Dental Health

Pregnancy is a time in which women need to be extra vigilant about their dental health. Not only can pregnancy cause an array of dental issues for the mother, but these conditions can also negatively affect the health of the baby.

Gingivitis and Periodontal Disease

Nearly 60 to 75% of pregnant women have gingivitis, an early stage of periodontal disease that occurs when the gums become red and swollen from inflammation that may be aggravated by changing hormones during pregnancy. Pregnancy is a major factor for the development of gingivitis and periodontal disease, thereby doubling your risk. As a result, more plaque and bacteria accumulate on your teeth, leading to tooth decay and gum disease.

In addition, during pregnancy, women tend to neglect their daily oral hygiene routines due to increased fatigue or nausea from morning sickness. One can lead to the other, and it is important that pregnant women maintain good dental hygiene in order to reduce their risk of developing periodontal disease.

What Can Happen to Baby

Research has found a link between severe gum disease in pregnant women and premature birth with low birth weight. Babies who are born prematurely can have a risk of brain injury, and problems with their eyesight and hearing.

It’s been suggested that up to 18 out of every 100 premature births could be linked to severe gum infection. Gum disease can be treated by a dentist during pregnancy.

Treatment Options During Pregnancy

Many of the problems that occur during pregnancy are related to hormonal changes. There will be times when you will need special treatment or care from your dentist. In most cases, a pregnant woman’s oral health requires supportive care rather than active treatment. Your dentist may recommend dental sealants for your back teeth and fluoride treatment to help strengthen your teeth.

However, there may be times during pregnancy when you will need active treatment; some conditions will require you to stop using certain medications or undergo surgery. Fortunately, if dental problems arise during your pregnancy, your dentist can help. We are able to provide the safest treatment possible for both you and your unborn baby.

What Can I Do?

The best thing you can do for yourself and baby is to be proactive about your dental health. If you have periodontal disease prior to pregnancy, it is important that you see a dentist for a professional cleaning and treatment before you become pregnant.

If you develop gingivitis during your pregnancy, you should see a dentist as soon as possible. This can help you prevent further damage to oral tissues and teeth. There are treatments available such as scaling and root planing (deep cleaning), which can be performed under local anesthesia.

In addition to maintaining good oral hygiene at home, you should also be sure to visit your dentist for routine cleanings and checkups. If you’re at risk for developing problems, your dentist may suggest you come in more frequently for cleanings while pregnant.

At Home Tips

Although the hormonal changes during pregnancy can increase your risk for developing gingivitis and other dental problems, you can still maintain good oral health by taking good care of your teeth at home. The best thing you can do to maintain your oral health during pregnancy is take good care of your teeth by doing the following:

• Eat a balanced diet rich in calcium, vitamins A & C, and other important minerals that are good for you, your dental health, and your baby.
• Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush for 2 minutes each time.
• Floss once a day to clean between your teeth and under the gum line. Plaque can hide out of reach of your toothbrush which is why flossing is important. 
• Don’t skip dental appointments. Schedule them as soon as you know you’re pregnant.
• If you have questions or concerns about dental care during pregnancy, talk to your dentist. Your dentist will work with you to develop an oral health plan that

Make an Appointment with Premier Dentistry of Eagle

If you would like more information on how pregnancy can affect dental health or if you have questions about your oral health, please call Premier Dentistry of Eagle at (208) 546-0655 to make an appointment today.