Your Dental Health During Pregnancy
My teeth are affected during pregnancy too?
Many parents may put their dental health on the back burner during pregnancy not knowing it is the most important time we should be taking extra care of our oral hygiene!
Taking care of your dental health is extremely important during pregnancy because of increased risk for of oral conditions and diseases. Typical cleaning and appointments should still be made during pregnancy but sometimes these appointments may get pushed to the side or maybe even forgotten about and not seen as big of a concern during pregnancy. Taking extra good care of your teeth is not not only important for your own dental health but you could potentially also pass any gum disease or bacteria to your baby in the future.
How can pregnancy impact my dental health?
Unfortunately, pregnancy brings hormonal changes that can increase the risk of gingivitis. Vomiting can leave more acidity in the mouth which can erode our teeth and snacking due to cravings or eating habits changing can also leave teeth more susceptible to cavities as well. Nausea can also cause us to let our oral hygiene slide. These little changes over time can have big consequences when it comes to our gums and teeth in the long run.
We talked with dental hygienist Taylor from Wilmington Holistic Dentistry to get a better understanding of how pregnancy impacts our dental health. “Nutrition is a huge factor.” says Taylor. She adds, “Your body can easily get depleted in minerals and vitamins while growing a baby. Mineral loss/deficiency can cause your body to pull the minerals from your enamel which can cause cavities to occur.”
New studies have confirmed that there is a link between gum disease and premature labor. According to the National Library of Medicine, those who went into labor early, “were only one and a half times more likely (45%) to have gum disease than women who experienced a perfect pregnancy (29%).” The research suggests that the bacteria from the gum infection can get into the blood stream and target the baby causing not only premature birth but also low birth weight in the baby.
Which hormones in pregnancy impact dental health & why?
The hormones estrogen and progesterone are the most impactful hormones in pregnancy. The rise of these hormones causes increased blood flow to the gums. This increased blood flow can also cause swelling and bleeding and sensitivity of the gums when brushing or flossing. According to hygienist Taylor, “Estrogen and progesterone may slow down saliva production which leaves your mouth more dry and can increase your chance of cavities.” Taylor also adds, “The increase in prostaglandins causes inflammation in your gum tissue. The more dilated your blood vessels are makes your gum tissue more susceptible to bacteria.”
How can I prevent dental problems during pregnancy?
Here are some easy tips from dental hygienist, Taylor:
Be sure to go to your regular dental check ups & cleanings.
Don’t forget to tell your hygienist and dentist that you are planning to get pregnant or that you are pregnant.
Try out using a remineralizing toothpaste
If nausea or vomiting is causing you to not be able to brush, rinse with an antacid or a mixture of 1 teaspoon of baking soda in 1 cup of water. It is important to rinse out your mouth after vomiting to neutralize any stomach acid left in your mouth.
Eating healthy foods can give you and your baby the nutrients your teeth need to help prevent oral complications down the road. Being aware of limiting consumption of sugary foods and drinks will also prevent more risk of cavities.
Keep brushing & flossing! Increased gum bleeding is normal in pregnancy- Don’t let this keep you from brushing twice a day and flossing every day.
