While you are anxiously awaiting the arrival of your little one, it is important to not overlook taking proper care of your teeth and gums as part of your prenatal care.
At times, pregnant women choose to get their teeth cleaned more frequently than once every 6 months to assure optimal oral health. If you suffer from morning sickness, it is imperative that you rinse your mouth or brush afterwards to prevent the acid from eating away at your tooth enamel. It is also important to stick to a healthy and balanced diet, as babies start to form their own teeth 3 months into pregnancy. Pay close attention to your gums and if you notice any changes in color or abnormal bumps, call your dentist. Non-cancerous pregnancy “tumors”, which are otherwise known as granulomas, can pop up during pregnancy. They are usually caused by a local irritation and go away. At times they can become large enough to where they have to be surgically removed. Luckily, this affects less than 10% of women during pregnancy.
Pregnancy gingivitis affects 60-75% of expectant mothers. During pregnancy, you have increased hormone levels, which in turn causes an increase in the amount of plaque that builds up on the teeth. You may start noticing that your gums are more likely to bleed while brushing and flossing. It is important to keep up with your routine oral hygiene to prevent periodontal disease due to the increase in gingivitis. Periodontal disease can affect your baby, as it can lead to increased chances of developing pre-eclampsia and delivering premature and underweight babies.
All in all, it is extremely important to be proactive about your oral health during pregnancy. Don’t avoid the dentist. Instead, make sure you take the time to get a thorough evaluation of your teeth and gums to reduce the risk of potential complications with your baby.
Schedule your appointment with Dr. Bo Stanley at Smile Pros to get your cleaning in!
