Dental Hygiene during Pregnancy

Reasons Why Oral Care Is Important During Pregnancy

Good oral health during pregnancy is important because it is important to your fetus. Some researchers have suggested that the serious stage of gum disease, periodontitis, could cause premature birth and low birth weight.  
Reference:

McGaw T. Periodontal Disease and Preterm Delivery of Low Birth Weight Infants. J Can Dent Assoc 2002;68(3):165-9.

There are several other reasons such as:

Frequent Eating
During pregnancy, women are likely to eat and drink more frequently throughout the day. And with the more frequent sugar intake comes an increased risk for cavities, so it’s especially important to stick with a sound tooth brushing and flossing routine.

Hormonal Changes
Some women may be more likely to develop red, puffy gums during pregnancy because the additional amount of the hormones in the body causes a strong reaction to normal amounts of plaque. If your gums are especially sensitive, try soft floss that slides easily and comfortably between teeth or a specialty interdental cleaning tool.

One of the most common dental problems associated with pregnancy is a condition known as pregnancy gingivitis, which usually occurs during the first trimester. Symptoms of pregnancy gingivitis are usually bleeding, swollen, red and tender gums.

Radiation Avoidance
Although some pregnant women may have a dental emergency that requires a dental x-ray, taking good care of your teeth during pregnancy reduces the odds that you will need dental x-rays, and you can avoid exposing your baby to radiation. But if you do need x-rays, don’t panic. Your dental professional will minimize your exposure by having you wear a leaded apron and thyroid collar.

Of course, proper nutrition is part of good dental hygiene, and pregnant women in particular should be sure to eat a variety of healthy foods and get plenty of calcium, phosphorous, protein, vitamin A, vitamin D and vitamin C.

Contrary to a popular myth, you won’t lose calcium from your teeth during pregnancy if you aren’t getting enough calcium in your diet. A growing baby will take calcium from a mother’s bones, not her teeth. But that’s all the more reason to eat healthy while following a strict routine of good oral care.

If you’re pregnant and would like a consultation with one of our general dentists, call the clinic and request an appointment!