My last article discussed some dietary and nutritional pointers to help ensure a developing baby’s teeth have all the needed nutrients so they can develop correctly. I felt it was only appropriate to address some pointers for a mother while she is pregnant!
As a standard in the dental world, we always suggest visiting your dentist and hygienist before becoming pregnant to rid the mouth of tartar build up, receive home care recommendations, and to address and hopefully treat any cavities or infections. At the very least, visit a dentist as soon as you become aware of your pregnancy to address these problems because leaving them untreated can lead to preterm birth and low birth weight of the baby as well as the following problems in the mom: pre-eclampsia, ulcerations, tumors, and infections of gum tissues, loose teeth, and the wearing away of tooth enamel.
It is also important to note that hormonal changes in pregnant women also increase the instance and severity of gingivitis, even in pregnant mothers who have a healthy mouth pre-pregnancy. Nearly half of all expecting mothers report gingivitis, which is an infection of gum tissues that is caused by the bacteria found in the mouth and causes sore, swollen, red, and bleeding gums. In most cases, because of the gingivitis as well as general fatigue, eating habits, and sometimes a decrease in brushing and flossing, pregnant mothers often see a deterioration in their oral health and an increase in cavities.
For decades, dental professionals have heard mothers say some variation of the following statement, “My baby sucked all the calcium from my teeth when I was pregnant and my teeth just fell apart.” We cringe. We literally cringe. This is Simply. Not. True. It is likely true that a mother developed many cavities while she were pregnant, but it has nothing to do with the baby robbing the mother of her own healthy teeth. The factors that influence the deterioration of oral health while pregnant depends on multiple factors such as: cravings & eating more carb loaded and sugar filled foods, hormone changes, vomiting or acid reflux eroding the teeth, changes in a mother’s oral care routine, and changes in saliva flow.
As you can see, it is very important to pay attention to your homecare habits and diet while pregnant. An early evaluation of your mouth can help you decide what changes need to be made and what treatment should be done to lower your chances of developing the problems outlined above. A combination of personal and professional attention to your oral health can truly keep you and your baby healthy during pregnancy. When possible, brush 2 times per day with a sonic toothbrush, floss daily, use an antiseptic mouth rinse after brushing, and rinse with warm salt water for gum tissue sensitivity and relaxation as needed. Remember that it is easier, cheaper, and more comfortable to prevent dental problems than it is to fix them- for you and your baby!
Reader Comments(0)