Pregnant women should take extreme care and dental health, before, during and after this vital period. In this article, we will explain why oral health is important in pregnancy.
The hormonal changes that the body undergoes during pregnancy can affect oral health: many people are unaware that the oral cavity is one of the most affected during pregnancy. That is why we recommend visiting the dentist during the first trimester of pregnancy and also before, to prevent and prioritize possible treatments.
Oral Health and Pregnancy
During this process, among a whole series of changes, certain hormones such as estrogen and progesterone increase, which can cause dental problems, such as the well-known “pregnancy gingivitis” that affects 36% of pregnant women.
In addition, changes in the composition of saliva during late pregnancy and lactation may predispose to enamel erosion and dental caries. Therefore, the primary objective in maintaining a healthy mouth is the prevention of caries and gingivitis.
We must bear in mind that if a pregnant woman suffers from gingivitis or periodontitis prior to pregnancy, the additional risk of adverse outcomes increases, mainly cases of premature or low birth weight. In the first case, it is estimated that the risk of premature birth can triple if the mother has periodontitis. One study even links periodontal disease to an increase in the time it takes a woman to get pregnant.
Keys to Oral Care in Pregnancy
For all these reasons, both during pregnancy and prior to it, it is necessary to insist on special care and control of oral health.
Here are some oral hygiene tips that will help avoid problems:
- Following good oral health practices and correct hygiene is essential: flossing and brushing three times a day, after each meal. This will help prevent the increase in dental plaque and the risk of gingivitis.
- Visit the dentist and remember that you can receive dental treatment at any time during pregnancy, although during the second trimester it will be more comfortable for you.
- If nausea causes vomiting, we recommend rinsing the mouth with water. Avoid brushing your teeth immediately, so as not to damage the enamel.
- Use toothpaste and fluoride mouthwashes as they help remineralize enamel damaged by vomiting, which is common in many pregnancies.
- Eating well, with a balanced diet and avoiding eating between meals is essential to have healthy teeth and a healthy baby.
- Avoid eating sweets and provide various sources of calcium.
- A dental check-up and cleaning is recommended during the first trimester, to avoid the accumulation of bacterial plaque. This will help the dentist identify potential problems.
- Continue with your dental care once the baby is born and consult with the dentist how to care for their teeth and gums
All these tips, together with proper dental hygiene, will help us improve oral health during pregnancy. If you have any doubts and for fully effective control, it is always best to talk to our dentist.
