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Understanding the Need for Maintaining Dental Health during Pregnancy

Dental Health

Maintaining good oral hygiene and health is essential for boosting overall health. It is a vital part of prenatal or pregnancy care. Pregnancy often raises the risks of dental health issues that may culminate in unwanted pregnancy complications. Pregnant women are more predisposed to cavities and gum or periodontal diseases. You may remember that poor oral or dental health during pregnancy may result in bad outcomes for both the baby and the mom. During pregnancy, your body experiences multiple changes. These changes can adversely impact your gums and teeth. Some of the changes in lifestyle that take place during pregnancy are:

  • You experience a boost in specific hormones such as estrogen and progesterone. It may lead to some dental or oral health issues.
  • Your food habits may change. You may prefer specific food items more than you ever did. Remember specific types of food you choose to eat would be impacting your overall dental health. For instance, you may develop a fascination for sweets and chocolates. This habit may lead to cavities if you do not take good care of oral hygiene.
  • During pregnancy, you may avoid brushing and flossing your teeth as often as you did earlier. It could be because you seem perpetually tired during pregnancy or your gums seem sore or tender. Moreover, brushing or flossing could be nauseating for some pregnant women.

These changes in a pregnant women’s lifestyle can lead to increased dental issues during pregnancy. You may seek assistance from dental experts at Battle Dental for quality dental care and treatment.

Some Dental Issues that May Crop Up During Pregnancy

Cavities: Cavities or caries are small and damaged areas occurring on your teeth’s surface. Pregnant ladies are more prone to tooth decay or caries. You may end up transferring harmful cavity-causing bacteria to your baby after birth or even during pregnancy. It will result in issues for your little one’s teeth.

Gingivitis: Gum inflammation is called gingivitis. If left untreated, this condition may culminate in serious gum diseases. Your gingivitis risks may go up during pregnancy due to a boost in hormonal activities. Around 60 percent to almost 75 percent of women suffer from gingivitis during pregnancy. Gingivitis is the initial stage of gum issues or periodontal disease. Gingivitis is marked by swollen and red gums because of inflammation that becomes worse when hormonal changes occur in a pregnant woman. According to CDC, in case, gingivitis is left unattended, the bone supporting your teeth may get completely damaged. Moreover, your gums may get infected. Some symptoms associated with gingivitis are tenderness in your gums, swelling, redness, bleeding, or shiny gums.

Periodontal Disease: Gingivitis may cause periodontal diseases if not proactively and promptly treated. Periodontal disease may cause gum infections and bone health issues. You will develop loose teeth that may need immediate extraction. Moreover, periodontics may cause bacteremia, a serious health issue necessitating proper treatment and expert assistance. Remember that smoking may trigger severe periodontal disease.

Loose Teeth: Due to the presence of estrogen and progesterone hormones in large amounts, pregnancy may loosen on a temporary basis, the bones and teeth that help your teeth to be in the perfect place. These hormones may loosen your teeth.

Pregnancy Tumors: Tumors in pregnant women are not cancerous. These tumors appear as lumps on your gums generally, between teeth. These tumors appear raw and red. They often bleed drop of a hat. They are triggered due to the excessive accumulation of plaque. These pregnancy tumors usually vanish on their own post-birth.

Conclusion

Dental checkups are mandatory before and throughout pregnancy. Look for a reliable dentist near you for treating and resolving dental issues. Moreover, pay attention to teeth cleanings regularly for healthy gums and teeth.

 

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