You’re expecting a new bundle of joy (congratulations, by the way).
We know about the bliss of motherhood and also the stresses of getting everything ready! Between shopping for baby clothes, toys and care items; trying to find baby names that both you and your partner like; and getting your baby’s nursery ready, there’s not much time to worry about anything else (are we right?).
However, in spite of all that, we have to stress the importance of taking the time to care for your dental health during this time.
The changes going on in your body, good and bad alike, are the result of hormones. These hormones not only affect your cravings and bathroom habits, but your dental health.
You should be aware of these changes and what they can mean for your oral health.
Pregnancy Gingivitis
Many pregnant women experience a swelling in the gums.
Changes in hormones can change the way that your gums react to the bacteria in plaque. If it isn’t removed, then this leads to a condition that is commonly referred to as pregnancy gingivitis. If you find your gums swelling or bleeding, all is not lost!
Be proactive with your dental hygiene and your oral health care. Brush and floss your teeth daily. Our dentist may recommend that you have professional dental cleanings and exams more frequently until your baby is born.
How Does Gingivitis Affect Mine & My Baby’s Health?
Gingivitis is the beginning stage of periodontal disease (aka an active infection in the pockets around your teeth).
Periodontal disease has been linked to many major health concerns like cardiovascular disease, Alzheimer disease, and diabetes.
It’s also valuable to note that those with periodontal concerns are more likely to give birth early or to give birth to low-birth-weight babies.
This is important because pre-term birth his puts your child at risk for things like feeding and digestive problems, hearing and vision loss, as well as respiratory problems.
Not to mention adverse long-term health consequences like delayed motor skills, learning disabilities, and poor social growth.
You want the best for you and for your baby, right? Of course! So, take the initiative and do what you can to prevent pregnancy gingivitis and to have it treated if it does arise.
Oral Health Care While Pregnant
Make sure that your dentist knows that you’re pregnant as soon as you know. That way, you and the dentist can become the perfect team for the defense of your oral health!
Regular dental care is a key component to good oral and general health. So don’t skip your visits—dental cleanings, as well as deep cleanings, are not only safe, but necessary.
Any other dental treatments that are needed are said to be low-risk during the second trimester due to embryonic development.
In fact, the ACOG encourages the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of oral conditions as part of the path to making your pregnancy a safe and healthy one. Here’s something shocking for you: they say dental X-rays are safe during pregnancy (as long as your thyroid and abdomen are shielded),
Our dental team in [city], [state], is ready and thrilled to help you maintain and improve your oral health while you’re expecting. Feel free to contact our dental office at [phone] today to learn more and to schedule a visit. We are excited to see you and your little peanut!
