I'm Pregnant! What's Going to Happen to My Teeth?

I'm Pregnant! What's Going to Happen to My Teeth?

Being pregnant and soon expanding your family can be a reason for great joy and excitement. But when a woman goes through pregnancy, her body experiences several changes to adapt to the life growing in her womb.

The baby will absorb the nutrients it needs to grow from the mother, and the mother can feel this in her body. With assistance from specialized professionals, she can balance this process and take care of her body and her child. 

What Happens to Your Oral Health During Pregnancy

During pregnancy, a woman can become more prone to developing cavities and periodontal disease (a condition that affects the gums and their ability to support teeth). 

Good oral hygiene together with regular check-ups for preventive care can help expecting mothers keep their teeth and gums healthy. This will not only help the mother keep their oral and general health in check but their baby too.  

Just make sure to let your dentist know that you are pregnant and they will adapt the treatment to your specific needs.  

Pregnancy and Oral Disease 

The early stage of periodontal disease is gingivitis. A high percentage of women develop gingivitis during pregnancy due to hormonal changes in their bodies. If your gums are red, swollen, and sensitive, then you should get in touch with your dentist as soon as possible as those are the first signs of gingivitis. 

Gingivitis symptoms are more severe during pregnancy. This also happens because of the numerous hormonal changes that happen in the body during this period. 

Gingivitis needs immediate attention to prevent it from developing into periodontal disease. This condition leads to bone loss and, eventually, tooth loss. That's because the gum can no longer support the tooth and it will start falling off. Missing teeth can lead to additional oral health problems, such as Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) disorders. 

Periodontal disease can also affect your pregnancy as it can lead to premature birth or low body weight. 

During pregnancy, you also have a higher risk of developing cavities. Your diet and eating patterns can also influence this, so make sure to stick to a healthy and nutritious diet.  

The bacteria that cause cavities can also be passed on to the child after birth. 

Oral Health During Pregnancy 

Keep good oral health during pregnancy by following these simple rules:

  • Go to regular dental check-ups
  • See your dentist if you are worried about your oral health 
  • Keep a thorough oral hygiene routine on a daily basis 
  • Use products that are certified and approved 
  • Eat a balanced diet and nurture your body 
  • Follow your doctor and dentist’s recommendations

We Can Help You Stay Healthy for You and Your Baby 

At DK Dental Care, you will find a comfortable and modern dental practice that focuses on building lasting relationships with its patients.  

If you want to book your appointment, then all you have to do is get in touch with us now.

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