News outlets have been buzzing lately with the story that scientists may have found the cause of pregnancy morning sickness. And while this is great news for moms-to-be (at least moms in the future), there are still other health concerns for expecting women. Among them are the adverse effects that pregnancy can have on your oral health. That’s why it is so important to have a great family dentist whom you can call for preventive dentistry as soon as that second line turns pink.
Dr. Julie Glud offers a full array of dental services to patients of all ages. At Dental Care of Lombard, we are proud to offer convenient, flexible services that focus on your specific health needs. Dr. Glud understands the importance of dental health during pregnancy. And as a young mom herself, she is sympathetic to the major ups and downs of carrying a baby.
Contact us to protect your dental health during your pregnancy.
Pregnancy and Gum Disease
No one needs to tell you that your hormones are surging. But what you may not know is that rising estrogen and progesterone can cause gum inflammation. In fact, 60 to 75% of pregnant women have gingivitis, the earliest (and, fortunately, treatable) stage of gum disease.
Gingivitis can cause gum inflammation, swelling, and light bleeding, especially when you brush or floss your teeth. Left untreated, gingivitis may progress to periodontitis. This disease can result in significant pain, gum recession, and tooth loss.
Pregnancy and Tooth Decay
Pregnancy can also increase your risk for cavities. Hormones may again be a culprit. On top of that, women may find themselves eating more frequently to stave off nausea. Further, vomiting can damage your dental enamel, exposing the softer underlying tissue that is more subject to decay. And if your morning sickness is severe, you may find that toothpaste or even the act of brushing your teeth are triggers.
The Other Side of the Coin: How Oral Health Affects Pregnancy
Alarmingly, oral health problems don’t just affect you. They can also harm your unborn baby. Untreated gum disease increases the chance of low birthweight and premature birth. Plus, having cavities while pregnant means it’s more likely that your baby will suffer from tooth decay later in life.
How to Protect Your Oral Health When Pregnant
Fortunately, dental health problems are not inevitable during pregnancy, especially when you have a great family dentist on your healthcare team. Along with at-home hygiene, professional preventive dentistry is one of the best ways to protect your teeth (and your baby).
If problems do arise, it is perfectly safe to undergo dental treatment while pregnant. Just be sure to tell your family dentist that you are expecting. That way, she can take precautions to make your treatment as safe – and comfortable! – as possible.
At home, be sure to brush and floss your teeth daily. If you find that brushing triggers your nausea, tell your dentist. She may recommend an antibacterial mouthwash as an additional safeguard. You should also increase your calcium intake. Not only is this important for your growing baby. It can also strengthen your tooth enamel to prevent decay.
Contact a Family Dentist Today
To learn more about dental health and pregnancy, or to schedule an appointment, contact Dental Care of Lombard today.
Reach us online or by calling 630-629-5700.
