Dental Health and Pregnancy

Dental Health and Pregnancy

Pregnancy is an exciting time for women (and their other half!) There are names to be chosen, cute clothes to be bought and the joy of bringing a new person into the world to be experienced.

However, it is also a challenging time in terms of health. Changes in hormones mean many women face various health issues including oral health issues.

Many have heard the saying "one tooth is lost every pregnancy" but this is merely an urban myth. The truth is, the hormone changes brought about pregnancy may cause change factors in your oral health, but as with other issues this can be managed effectively.

Here is some important information about pregnancy and oral health that will assist women in ensuring good health throughout pregnancy and beyond.

Before pregnancy

Whether you are pregnant or not, everyone should maintain good oral hygiene. It is important to have a daily routine of care established so that you have a good foundation.

Brush twice a day with a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Use dental floss and mouthwash to clean between teeth where the toothbrush cannot reach. Just these simple steps will ensure that plaque (bacteria, saliva and food remnants) do not build up.

Also visit your dentist regularly - if you need any dental treatment, it may be more comfortable for you to have this done before pregnancy in case you experience nausea or tiredness as your pregnancy progresses.

If you are already pregnant or suspect you are, it is important to inform your dentist as it may affect the type of care necessary for you.

For example, your dentist may choose to postpone X-rays and elective procedures until after the birth. If there is a dental emergency that requires general anaesthesia or prescribed medication, your obstetrician should be consulted.

During Pregnancy

There are many common oral issues that pregnant women may face. Again, simple steps can be taken to deal with each issue.

Plaque and gingivitis

When you are pregnant, hormonal changes may lead to an increase in the amount of plaque on your teeth. If plaque isn't removed, it can cause gingivitis or even gum disease. Symptoms include bleeding and swelling of the gums.

Some pregnant women suffer from 'pregnancy gingivitis' with the condition likely to appear in the second trimester. Here, hormonal changes induce bleeding in the gums despite the best possible hygiene measures. Your dentist can identify this. Gums usually revert to normal after baby is born.

If not treated, gingivitis can develop into more severe forms of gum disease such as periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is a chronic bacterial infection of the gum tissue that supports a person's teeth, where the bacteria start to move deeper and thrive in the gap between the gum and the tooth, causing the attachment of the tooth and its supporting tissue bread down. If identified, this must be treated as a matter of urgency as gum disease has been linked to premature birth and low birth-weight in babies.