Dental care and Pregnancy

What is dental health and how does it affect pregnancy?

Dental health is the health of our teeth, mouth and gums and it's very important for all of us to take good care of your teeth and gums while pregnant. Pregnancy causes hormonal changes that increase the risk of developing gum disease which, in turn, can affect the health of your developing baby.

Pregnant women tend to become more susceptible to oral infections and are at increased risk of gum disease and permanent tooth damage. Poor oral health can become a risk to a healthy pregnancy outcome.

How does pregnancy affect your dental health?

1. The levels of certain hormones like progesterone and estrogen, in our body get increased during pregnancy. These can increase your risk for certain oral health problems.
2. Eating habits may change during pregnancy which leads to affect your dental health.

Risk of Periodontal Disease in Pregnancy:

If gingivitis is untreated, it can lead to gum disease. This causes serious infection in the gums and problems with the bones that support the teeth. Your teeth may get loose, and they may have to be extracted (pulled). Periodontitis can lead to bacteremia (bacteria in the bloodstream) and this is a serious condition that needs immediate treatment.  

What can you do to help prevent dental problems?

1.            Regular brushing and flossing can remove plaque and help keep your teeth and gums healthy.
2.          Eat healthy foods which include fruits and vegetables, lean meat, whole-grain breads and pasta and low-fat dairy products. Limit sweets and sugary foods and drink water instead of sugary drinks. Eating healthy foods helps give you and your growing baby important nutrients. Your baby’s teeth start developing between 3 and 6 months of pregnancy.
3.         Nutrients like calcium, protein, phosphorus, and vitamins A, C and D, help your baby’s teeth grow healthy.