Pregnancy And Your Mouth
Pregnancy
Routine dental cleanings during pregnancy are not only safe but are recommended. The hormone rise during pregnancy causes the gums to swell, bleed, and trap food causing increased irritation to your gums. Usually, I recommend pregnant mothers increase the frequency of the hygiene visits in order to prevent potential problem before they occur. Routine dental cleanings can help you have healthier gums during your pregnancy and help reduce irritation created by swelling.
Regular dental work during pregnancy?
Regular dental work such as cavity fillings should be postponed until at least after the first trimester, which is the most crucial time of development for the baby. If dental work is done during pregnancy, it is best during the second trimester. Once you reach the third trimester, it may be very difficult to lie on your back for an extended period of time, while dental work is done.
Elective Dental Treatment
Elective treatments, such as teeth whitening and other cosmetic procedures should be postponed until after birth.
Regular dental work is essential to avoid any oral infections such as abscess, gingivitis and periodontal disease. Oral infections may become systemic infections which can adversely affect the baby.
Local Anesthesia (numbing)
The amount of anesthesia administered should be as little as possible, but still enough to make you comfortable. If you are experiencing pain, request additional numbing. When you are comfortable, the amount of stress on you and the baby is reduced. Also the more comfortable you are, the easier it is for the anesthesia to work. I would like to avoid the necessity of administering these medications by having your dental health examined prior to pregnancy.
Antibiotics
Dental work often requires antibiotics for preventing or treating infections. Antibiotics such as amoxicillin have shown to be acceptable during pregnancy, however you should avoid tetracycline. I would like to avoid the necessity of prescribing these medications by having your dental health examined prior to pregnancy.
What if I'm pregnant and need a dental radiograph examination?
A radiograph may be needed for dental treatment or a dental emergency that can't wait until after the baby is born. Untreated dental infections can pose a risk to the fetus, and dental treatment may be necessary to maintain the health of the mother and child. Radiation from dental X-rays is extremely low. However, every precaution is taken to minimize radiation exposure. If a radiograph is absolutly necessary, a leaded apron minimizes exposure to the abdomen and should be used when any dental radiograph is taken even if your not pregnant.
A leaded thyroid collar can protect the thyroid from radiation, and should be used whenever possible. The use of a leaded thyroid collar is strongly recommended for women of childbearing age, pregnant women and children. I would like to avoid the necessity of taking a radiograph by having your dental health examined prior to pregnancy. Dental radiographs are not contraindicated if one is trying to become pregnant or is breast feeding.
Does pregnancy affect my gums?
- During pregnancy, your body's hormone levels rise considerably. Gingivitis, especially common during the 2nd to 8th months of pregnancy, may cause red, puffy or tender gums that tend to bleed when you brush. This sensitivity is an exaggerated response to plaque and is caused by an increased level of progesterone in your system. We may recommend more frequent cleanings during your second trimester or early third trimester to help you avoid problems.
What are "pregnancy tumors"?
- Occasionally overgrowths of gum tissue, called "pregnancy tumors," appear on the gums during the second trimester. These localized growths or swellings are usually found between the teeth and are believed to be related to excess plaque. They bleed easily and are characterized by a red, raw-looking mulberry-like surface. They are often surgically removed after the baby is born. If you experience pregnancy tumors, see your dentist.
Is there a connection between my diet, pregnancy, and my oral health?
Eating a balanced diet is necessary to provide the correct amounts of nutrients to nourish both you and your child. What you eat during the nine months of pregnancy affects the development of your unborn child -- including teeth. Your baby's teeth begin to develop between the third and sixth month of pregnancy, so it is important that you receive sufficient amounts of nutrients - especially calcium, protein, phosphorous, and vitamins A, C, and D.
Does a woman lose calcium from her teeth during pregnancy?
It is a myth that calcium is lost from the mother's teeth during pregnancy. The calcium your baby needs is provided by your diet, not by your teeth. If dietary calcium is inadequate, however, your body will provide this mineral from stores in your bones. An adequate intake of dairy products - a prime source of calcium - or the supplements your obstetrician may recommend will help ensure that you get all the calcium you need during your pregnancy.
What if I'm hungry between meals?
During pregnancy, many women have the desire to eat between meals. While this is a normal urge, frequent snacking on carbohydrate-containing foods can be an invitation to tooth decay. The decay process begins with plaque, an invisible, sticky layer of harmful bacteria that constantly forms on teeth. The bacteria convert sugar and starch that remain in the mouth to acid that attacks tooth enamel. The longer sugars are retained in your mouth, the longer the acids attack. After repeated attacks, tooth decay can result.
Eat nutritious, well-balanced meals made up of foods from the five major food groups: breads, cereals and other grains; fruits; vegetables; meat, fish, poultry and protein alternates; and milk, yogurt and cheese. Try to resist the urge to snack constantly. When you need a snack, choose foods that are nutritious for you and your baby such as raw fruits and vegetables and dairy products. Following your physician's advice regarding diet is your wisest course.