Pregnancy is a time of great joy! You have a lot to think about and prepare to welcome the new member of your family. Unfortunately, you can be so busy and excited that you easily forget about the health of your mouth. A healthy smile is important and especially during pregnancy. Hormonal changes during pregnancy affect your mouth. Gum bleeding and tenderness along with gum swelling are not unusual during this time. However, whether you are pregnant or not, the principles on how to prevent oral diseases remain the same. Many changes occur during pregnancy and oral health is no exception, with some adverse effects. Many myths exist during pregnancy when it comes to dental care. Worries include taking X-rays and even what to do with a toothache. This article will help separate fact from myth.
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Your Baby's Health
Studies report that poor oral health increases the risk of problematic pregnancy, including miscarriage. However, since 80 percent of spontaneous abortions occur in the first trimester, it is recommended to avoid any non-emergency treatment until the second or third trimester. In the second trimester, the main layers of the baby's
internal organs have developed, thus reducing the risk of exposure to any harmful or necessary drugs.
In the second trimester, it is also easier for the mother to lie in the dental chair for long periods. However, if you need to stay in the dentist's chair for a while, it may be helpful to take short breaks.
X-Ray and Pregnancy
With modern digital radiology, radiation exposure is extremely low. You and your unborn child are at higher risk overall for gum disease or dental infection than if you were exposed to radiation. Other ways you can be exposed to radiation include the sun, microwave ovens, and your cell phones. If you need an X-ray for your necessary dental problem, your dentist will protect you by covering your throat and abdomen with a lead apron. The collar of the apron will protect the thyroid during radiation.
Drugs Used in Pregnancy
Your dentist may need to prescribe medication or over-the-counter medications during dental treatment. Be sure to inform your dentist about the medications you are using. Your dentist may consult your doctor to determine the best medication for pain relief or antibiotics if needed.
Gum Disease and Troubled Pregnancy
Evidence from recent studies suggests a link between gum disease and low birth weight infants and preterm birth. It is important to see a dentist before and during pregnancy to prevent transmission of oral bacteria from mother to child and to prevent problematic pregnancies.
Often due to hormonal changes during pregnancy, the gums become easily inflamed and appear swollen. This tissue overgrowth is called a “pregnancy tumor”. It usually occurs in the second trimester, if any. The swelling is nothing to worry about as long as it is cancerous. It is usually found between the teeth and is caused by poor oral hygiene, which means excess plaque. You will notice that the swelling bleeds easily and has a red appearance due to inflammation. The cleaner you keep your teeth and gums, the less likely this condition will occur or worsen. Self-help with daily oral hygiene and quarterly visits to your dentist can help prevent “pregnancy gingivitis.”
Healthy Mom = Healthy Baby When you are pregnant, you are responsible for your health and the health of your baby. Healthy habits will help you have an easier pregnancy and a healthier baby. What you eat and your oral hygiene are habits you should practice daily by making smart choices. Now that we know an unhealthy mouth can affect the health of your unborn baby, it's important to take a few steps to help prevent problematic pregnancy:
Practice proper oral hygiene daily.
Get a dental exam before you become pregnant or as soon as you find out.
How to Brush:
Use alcohol-free mouthwash and swish around your mouth before brushing.
Floss properly and talk to a dental hygienist if you're not sure how.
Rinse your toothbrush and apply a small amount of toothpaste to it.
Brush all sides of each tooth in circular motions.
Brush your gums gently.
Settle down.
Store your toothbrush in a dry place.
Replace your toothbrush after you catch a cold or if it looks worn.
The National Maternal and Child Oral Health Policy Center have a list of tips to follow during pregnancy for healthy eating:
Eat a variety of healthy foods such as fruits; vegetables; whole-grain products such as cereals, bread, or crackers; and dairy products such as milk, cheese, cottage cheese, or unsweetened yogurt.
Eat less high-sugar foods such as candies, cookies, cakes, and dried fruit; and consume less high-sugar drinks, including fruit juice, fruit-flavored drinks, or soft drinks.
For snacks, choose foods low in sugar, such as fruit, vegetables, cheese, and unsweetened yogurt.
Read food labels so you can choose foods that are low in sugar.
If you have trouble with nausea, try eating small amounts of healthy foods throughout the day.
Drink water or milk instead of juice, fruit-flavored drinks, or soft drinks.
Drink water throughout the day, especially between meals and snacks.
Take 600 micrograms of folic acid every day throughout your pregnancy to reduce the risk of birth defects. Take a dietary supplement containing folic acid and eat foods high in folate and foods fortified with folic acid:
Asparagus, broccoli, and leafy green vegetables such as lettuce and spinach
Legumes (beans, peas, lentils)
Papaya, tomato juice, orange or orange juice, strawberries, cantaloupe, and banana
Cereal products fortified with folic acid (bread, cereals, cornmeal, flour, pasta, white rice.)
See Your Dentist
If you are expecting to become pregnant, see your dentist determine the health of your teeth and gums. Continue to see your dentist for checkups, cleanings, or treatment during your pregnancy, per your dentist's advice. The first trimester is best for emergency treatment.
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