Here’s Why Dental Care is Important While You’re Pregnant
Pregnancy is an exciting time. You’ve got a new baby on the way, people tend to treat you extra special, and you can eat whatever you want (within reason)! While pregnancy is exciting, it changes your body and requires that you stay on top of its care and maintenance.
One of the most important aspects of having a healthy pregnancy is good dental care. While you might get caught up in prenatal visits and making sure you’re taking the best care of yourself possible, it is important that you make it a point to take care of your oral health.
When should I tell my dentist I am pregnant?
Never hide your pregnancy status from your dentist. Whether you’re trying to get pregnant or think you might be pregnant, it’s important that you tell your dentist this so that they can take the necessary precautions to protect both you and the baby.
Depending on whether you’re high risk or suffer from certain conditions, the dentist might decide to withhold certain procedures.
How can pregnancy affect a woman’s mouth?
There are several conditions that can occur during pregnancy. By monitoring your oral health and having a baseline of where you stand, Dr. Toyer will be able to determine what is related to pregnancy.
Pregnancy Gingivitis
Normal hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause the chemistry in your mouth to change. This is why some women develop pregnancy gingivitis. This is characterized by swelling and tenderness of the gums. You might also notice that your gums bleed after brushing or flossing. It is crucial that this condition is treated, as it can lead to extensive tooth decay and even tooth loss. Oftentimes the solution is to schedule cleanings more frequently.
Increased Risk of Tooth Decay
Pregnant women tend to be at an increased risk of tooth decay for a variety of reasons. Morning sickness, characterized by throwing up, increases the amount of stomach acid in a person’s mouth and can break down the enamel of a tooth. Most pregnant women tend to consume more carbohydrates, which break down into sugars. This can also lead to decay.
Oftentimes women who lose their normal oral care routine because they don’t feel well, have tender gums, or have a more sensitive gag reflex. It is important that despite these issues you continue your routine as poor oral health can lead to premature birth, gestational diabetes, and preeclampsia.
Pregnancy Tumors
Most often seen during the second trimester, pregnancy tumors are small growths that often appeal on the gums. They tend to bleed and look like little raspberries. These often disappear after birth, however, can be removed by the dentist if they are something you are concerned about.
If you’re trying to become pregnant or recently became pregnant, contact us. Dr. Toyer is here to help ensure your mouth is as healthy as possible. Schedule an appointment to make sure you’re on the right track and learn more about how you can keep your mouth and overall health in the best condition.
April Toyer, DDS, FAAPD
The team at Lifetime Dental Care brings a full range of services to patients in and around the Woodbridge, VA area. These four doctors bring a range of experience, diverse backgrounds, and professional knowledge together to provide families with a safe and friendly home for their oral health needs.