How Pregnancy Can Affect Oral Health

How Pregnancy Can Affect Oral Health

When you’re expecting a child, it goes without saying that nearly every aspect of your life significantly changes. As the body adjusts to pregnancy, the state of the smile can fluctuate as well. Knowing what dental issues are common during this time and what symptoms to look out for helps lower the risks of complications.

Concerning Conditions When Expecting

When you do not properly practice dental hygiene, you are susceptible to oral health complications, but expectant mothers are even more vulnerable due to the level of hormonal changes throughout pregnancy.

To minimize health risks during pregnancy, here are some oral health issues to look out for:

Gingivitis- Some women will experience fluctuations in their gum health. The soft tissue can appear redder, be more sensitive, and bleed easily during brushing and flossing. These changes can start as early as the second month of pregnancy, and peak during the third trimester. The rapid increase in hormone and progesterone levels help bacteria grow, accelerating the development of gingivitis.

Tooth Erosion- Morning sickness is not only an unfortunate side effect of pregnancy but also contributes toward serious repercussions for a mother’s dental health. Frequent vomiting can erode the rear surfaces of teeth and weaken dental enamel.

Dry Mouth- Many expectant mothers complain about these symptoms which include frequent thirst, mouth sores, and a dry feeling in a smile. Constant changes throughout the body interrupt saliva production, impacting oral health significantly. Stress and certain medications are strong instigators of this condition as well.

How Mothers-To-Be can Protect Their Oral Health

Taking preventive steps utilizing effective dental care techniques not only benefits expectant mothers but ensures their baby’s health as well. 

Brushing and flossing every day break up the food particles that feed plaque-causing bacteria, preventing periodontitis and tooth decay. It is especially important to schedule routine appointments with a dentist every three to six months while pregnant to guarantee the gums are disease free.

An infant’s teeth start developing between three to six months during pregnancy, making oral health an important factor to consider before they’re born. Mothers can support their child’s smile by implementing a diet rich in nutrients such as calcium, protein, vitamins A, C, and D.

At West Houston Dental, we believe that optimal oral health is essential in all stages of life. We encourage expectant mothers to call or visit our Houston, TX office today with any questions or concerns they may have. Dr. Tomy Nguyen and his experienced dental team will be happy to take care of you!