Two common myths about pregnancy are that calcium is lost from a mother’s teeth and “one tooth is lost with every pregnancy.” However, some women may experience some changes in their oral health during pregnancy. The primary changes are due to a surge in hormones. During pregnancy, the level of progesterone in your body can be 10 times higher than normal. This may enhance growth of certain bacteria that cause gingivitis. During pregnancy you may get what is referred to “pregnancy gingivitis”. This happens when the plaque isn’t removed which causes the gums to get red, swollen, and tender and are more likely to bleed. It is most common in the front of the mouth. If it is not treated, it can lead to periodontal disease.
Pregnant women are particularly prone to periodontal (gum) disease due to the hormonal changes. Research has found that women with periodontal disease may be at higher risk for delivering pre-term, low birth weight (PLBW) infants. Dental plaque, a sticky colorless film that constantly forms on the teeth, contains bacteria and toxins that cause gum disease (periodontal disease). Gum disease affects the gums as well as the supporting structures of the teeth. The bleeding and swelling are sometimes only visible to your dentist. Being diligent in your home regimen of oral care—brushing, flossing, using an antibacterial rinse—plus regular visits to your dentist can help prevent gum disease.
Nausea and vomiting are common with pregnancy. It is important to reduce the amount of acid in your mouth that can damage your teeth. Frequent vomiting can erode the enamel on the back of the front teeth. It is recommended that you eat small amounts of nutritious snacks during the day. If you do vomit, mix 1 teaspoon of baking soda in a cup of water and use this to rinse with. Be sure to spit after rinsing. Do not brush right after vomiting; this can damage the surface of the teeth.
Dry mouth is a common complaint among pregnant woman. A few ways you can combat dry mouth is by drinking plenty of water and using sugarless hard candies or gum containing xylitol (which reduces the harmful bacteria that cause cavities) to stimulate saliva secretion and keep your mouth moist. Less commonly, pregnant women feel they have too much saliva in their mouths. This condition occurs very early in a pregnancy. It disappears by the end of the first trimester.
Receiving dental care during pregnancy is safe and recommended after approval from your OBGYN. By getting your own active decay taken care before the birth of your baby, there will be less bacteria to be transmitted to your baby.
Keeping up with your oral health is especially important at this time. Not only are you taking care of your mouth and health but helping the baby as well.
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