Pregnancy and Oral Health

 Congratulations!  You are probably not thinking about your oral health with the baby planning and celebrating. But don’t forget your teeth and gums! Changing hormone levels with pregnancy can cause dental problems, such as pregnancy gingivitis.
It is important to continue your dental visits during pregnancy or if you haven’t gone in to see your dentist in a while you should schedule a checkup and cleaning.  Make sure to tell your dentist that you are pregnant and about any changes and challenges you have noticed with your daily oral care.
Healthy gums are important for your baby’s health.  Professional cleanings are important to have during pregnancies. In fact some dental insurance companies will cover an additional cleaning a year if you are pregnant (ask your dental office). Studies have shown gum disease linked with pre-term low baby weight.  Also, toothaches due to decay or infections are not healthy for the Mom therefore not healthy for the baby.  If dental treatment is needed, your dentist and doctor will decide when it is the best time for treatment, typically it is during the second trimester.
Most pregnant women experience nausea during their pregnancy and this may affect their ability to brush well.  It is important to keep brushing and flossing to remove the daily accumulation of plaque which can cause decay and gingivitis.  Sometimes the flavor of the toothpaste or the texture of the toothpaste causes nausea.  Simply brushing with a toothbrush dipped in mouthwash or brushing with nothing in the toothbrush is good.  If the toothbrush is causing severe nausea, you can use mouthwash (Crest Pro-Health or Cepacol, both are alcohol-free) occasionally, but brushing and flossing regularly is the most effective daily method of plaque removal.
If you experience a toothache or gum ache during your pregnancy, do not ignore it. Make an appointment with your dentist to have an exam to make sure it is not something serious that will affect your health or your baby’s. X-rays are safe with proper precautions but not always necessary and the need will be discussed with your dentist and doctor.
For more information, contact Adrienne L. Fang, DDS 27420 Tourney Rd Ste 280 Valencia, Ca. 91355 (661) 253-0588 www.tourneyroaddental.com