Many people think of their dental health as completely separate from their general well-being, but the truth is that the two are closely connected. For instance, did you know that pregnancy can significantly affect your teeth and gums?
Maintaining a healthy mouth throughout pregnancy helps prevent common issues such as cavities and gum disease. However, it’s natural to wonder whether it’s safe to undergo the necessary procedures to treat any concerns that arise. Continue reading to learn more about it so you know what to expect while you’re expecting!
How Does Pregnancy Affect My Dental Health?
Pregnancy induces massive shifts in your hormone levels and blood flow that can affect your daily life in several ways. For example, you might develop morning sickness early on or become more sensitive to certain tastes or smells that wouldn’t normally bother you.
But the surges in estrogen and progesterone that occur can also result in swollen, tender, or inflamed gums, increasing the risk of developing periodontal disease. This is probably why an estimated 60% to 75% of pregnant women develop gingivitis, the earliest form of gum disease.
Furthermore, frequent vomiting, acid reflux, sweet food cravings, and dry mouth as a result of shifting hormones or medications can also erode your enamel, causing cavities that can lead to infections.
Are Dental Procedures Safe During Pregnancy?
You may be more prone to certain oral problems while pregnant, which might require different treatments to address. However, depending on your provider, they might recommend waiting until the 2nd trimester or after childbirth, depending on the issue and its severity.
For instance, non-urgent or elective treatments, like cosmetic procedures, might not be ideal when pregnant because they could potentially cause discomfort or trigger inflammation. But certain painkillers, like ibuprofen, which are commonly recommended to reduce symptoms, are usually not considered safe in your current condition. It might be better to wait until after delivery to avoid potential complications.
Meanwhile, if you develop an issue like gum disease that needs more immediate attention, your dentist might recommend treatment during the 2nd trimester, when you’re less nauseated and comfortable enough to sit still throughout the procedure.
How Can I Maintain My Smile While Pregnant?
Thankfully, there are several ways you can help protect your smile during and after pregnancy, including:
- Maintain your routine. Brushing and flossing twice daily removes plaque and bacteria that contribute to decay and disease.
- Switch your toothbrush. If your regular routine triggers gagging or nausea, you might switch to a smaller, child-sized brush or use one with softer bristles.
- Handle morning sickness. Stomach acid erodes enamel, so avoid brushing immediately after vomiting, which can damage it further. You can rinse your mouth with water instead, then brush after 30 minutes or so.
If you have additional questions about your dental health during pregnancy, your dentist can provide more accurate information based on your individual circumstances!
About the Practice
Patients of all ages at Beverly Farms Dental benefit from three dentists committed to helping them build beautiful, healthy smiles. Dr. Tolzmann and Dr. Yudi, both accomplished general dentists, collaborate with Dr. Cifuni, a board-certified periodontist, to offer a complete menu of services, including preventive care, to meet the unique needs of families and individuals. If you’re pregnant and are concerned about your dental health, you can request an appointment on the website or call (978) 927-3515.
