Pregnancy is an exciting stage in a woman’s life. It’s a busy time and it can be easy to overlook your oral health, but this is a crucial time to keep up good dental hygiene habits. Being pregnant can actually put you at a heightened risk for certain dental problems.

 

• Pregnancy gingivitis is a condition that occurs because the pregnant body has an increased response to dental plaque. Gum tissues will react more dramatically to plaque. Someone who was already suffering from gingivitis will typically see it worsen.
• Loosening of the ligaments and bones that support teeth is common during pregnancy. There should not be any tooth loss or permanent damage unless there was already tooth decay or another dental problem. The treatment of periodontal disease during pregnancy is not associated with any adverse maternal or birth outcomes.
• Pregnancy tumors are overgrowths that appear on the gum line. They are not a cancerous tumor but occur because of swelling. These are harmless, but can be removed by your dentist.

 

To maintain good oral health during pregnancy:

• Brush and floss twice a day. Pay particular attention to keeping teeth clean near the gum line.
• If suffering from morning sickness, use a mouthwash that is anti-plaque and contains fluoride. It’s important to not let stomach acid sit on your teeth after being sick. This acid will eat away at your tooth enamel and cause cavities.
• Eat a healthy diet. Be sure to include lots of calcium and vitamin C, which helps keep teeth strong.
• An infant’s teeth begin to develop between the third and sixth months of pregnancy. Make sure you’re eating lots of nutrients so their teeth can grow correctly.
• Routine dental visits and cleanings are safe during pregnancy. Talk to your Beaverton TenderCare dentist about any concerns you have. If you experience symptoms of gingivitis, see your dentist.

 

You’ll be happier and healthier if you take care of your body (including your teeth) during your pregnancy. We look forward to helping patients maintain great oral hygiene during this exciting time as well as nurturing their child’s smile in the years to come!