The news that you or someone you love is expecting is exciting! With so much to do to prepare for a new baby, it can be easy to forget things like brushing and flossing daily or going to the dentist. However, taking care of oral health during pregnancy is one of the best things you can do for yourself and your baby. Check out the top four reasons oral health care is essential during pregnancy.
Pregnancy symptoms can cause oral health problems
The body experiences many changes during pregnancy, some of which can negatively impact oral health. Common pregnancy symptoms such as morning sickness, cravings and fatigue may lead to oral health problems:
- Morning sickness: Vomiting may cause acid erosion on the teeth, ultimately eating away at enamel and putting you at risk of tooth sensitivity and decay
- Cravings: 50 – 90% of pregnant individuals experience pregnancy cravings, with sweet, sugary foods being the most common category consumed. Increased sugar is likely to attack your enamel and cause oral health issues.
- Fatigue: Feelings of tiredness or lack of energy are common pregnancy symptoms. Maintaining a consistent oral health routine at home may feel harder to accomplish during pregnancy.
Pregnancy gingivitis
Due to changing hormones, 60 – 75% of pregnant women develop pregnancy-related gingivitis. Treating gingivitis in its early, mild state is essential, as it can lead to severe gum disease down the road. According to health experts, signs and symptoms of gingivitis include:
- Red and swollen gums
- General tenderness in the gums
- Bleeding of the gums
- Shiny gums
- Bad breath
Although there are at-home remedies to reverse gingivitis, it’s always best to visit your dentist if you notice any pain or symptoms.
Poor oral health and diseases can affect babies
The overall health of an unborn baby is affected by the oral health of its mother. Neglecting oral health during pregnancy can lead to:
- Preterm labor: Excess bacteria and oral infections such as gum disease can lead to preterm birth or low birth weight for babies. Babies born before term can have serious medical issues both after birth and in the long term.
- Oral health problems for babies: Bacteria that cause cavities can spread from pregnant women to their babies before or after birth. It’s recommended to have oral health problems, such as cavities, treated during pregnancy. Children whose mother has multiple untreated cavities are three times more likely to have cavities.
Going to the dentist is recommended during pregnancy
Maintain your oral health during pregnancy by continuing a proper home-care routine. Keep up good habits such as brushing twice daily, flossing daily (especially after morning sickness) and avoiding an abundance of sugary foods that could cause cavities.
There is a myth that it’s unsafe to visit your dentist during pregnancy; however, doctors and dentists recommend that pregnant women continue to go to the dentist. Seeing your dentist helps your overall health by preventing tooth decay and watching for gingivitis. Treatments that require anesthesia, such as fillings, root canals or teeth pulling are also safe.
If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, talk to your dentist about any concerns or changes in your mouth. For other questions about pregnancy and oral health, check out our blog.