Being vigilant with good oral hygiene is important at all times and even more so during pregnancy. A woman’s body goes thru lots of changes during pregnancy, and some of those changes can have an impact on your oral health.
Hormonal Changes During Pregnancy Can Cause:
- Gingivitis - Gingivitis comes from a buildup of plaque, causing the gums to become swollen, red and tender. If left untreated, this can lead to a more serious condition known as periodontitis.
- Oral tumors - Pregnancy tumors are found on the gums and are usually benign and temporary, but left untreated they can cause other complications. Depending on the level of discomfort, your dentist may want to remove them.
- Mild or severe gingival enlargement - Gingival enlargement is tissue growth or inflammation on the gums as a result of bacterial plaque. If left untreated, it can interfere with eating and cause bleeding and pain.
Maintaining good oral hygiene habits can help prevent all of these conditions during pregnancy.
Sometimes these conditions will actually worsen during a pregnancy, then lessen or disappear later in the pregnancy or after the baby is born. Your dentist can recommend an appropriate regimen of oral care during pregnancy to relieve or reduce discomfort, and deter the problems from being aggravated.
How to Avoid Oral Health Problems During Pregnancy
- Brush twice daily
- Use a fluoride toothpaste
- Floss daily
- Eat a balanced diet
- Schedule regular dental exams and preventative maintenance
- Use an antimicrobial rinse - IF recommended by your dentist
Good oral health is important to everyone, everyday—and especially during pregnancy!
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