You have so much to think about during pregnancy, but don’t overlook your oral health, which can be affected by the hormonal changes you will experience during this time.
It is important to continue to see your dentist during pregnancy for oral exams and professional teeth cleaning. Be sure to tell your dentist you are pregnant and about any changes you have noticed in your oral health.
For example, women are more likely to develop gingivitis during pregnancy. Gingivitis is an infection of the gums that can cause swelling and tenderness.
Your gums also may bleed a little when you brush or floss. Left untreated, gingivitis can affect the supporting tissues that hold your teeth in place. Your dentist may recommend more frequent cleanings to prevent gingivitis.
Sometimes, lumps appear along the gum line and between teeth. These swellings are harmless, but they bleed easily and have a red, raw-looking berry-like surface. Although these growths are sometimes called “pregnancy tumors,” they are not cancerous. They usually go away on their own after pregnancy, but they can be easily removed if they bother you.
Total health important
Your oral health is an important part of your overall health, and untreated dental disease may be harmful to you and your baby.
Be sure to let your dentist know about any medications or supplements you are taking. Your dentist may need to use or prescribe medication as part of your treatment. Some medications are safe for limited use during pregnancy while others should not be used at all.
For example, if you develop an infection, your dentist might prescribe penicillin or amoxicillin. However, pregnant women should not be treated with tetracycline because it can stain the fetus’ developing teeth. Once the teeth come in, they make look gray or brown permanently as a result of these stains.
Talk to your dentist or physician about medications that are safe to use during pregnancy.
X-rays during pregnancy
Although X-rays often may be delayed until after your baby is born, your dentist may need to have an X-ray as part of your dental treatment. To minimize your exposure and that of the fetus to X-rays, your dentist will cover your abdomen with a protective apron and place a thyroid collar over your throat.
Your baby’s teeth
Your child’s baby teeth are important too. Children need strong, healthy teeth to chew their food, speak and have a goodlooking smile. Baby teeth also hold a space in the jaw for the adult teeth. If a baby tooth is lost too early, the teeth beside it may drift into the empty space. When it’s time for the adult teeth to come in , there may not be enough room.
Starting infants off with good oral care can help protect their teeth for decades to come. The American Dental Association recommends a dental visit for your child by the first birthday. Your child’s baby teeth are at risk for decay as soon as they first appear — which is usually around 6 months of age.
Tooth decay in infants and toddlers most often occurs in the upper front teeth. The good news is that decay is preventable. To reduce the risk of tooth decay, avoid frequent, prolonged exposure of the baby’s teeth in liquids that contain sugar, such as sweetened water and fruit juice.
Tooth decay can occur when the baby is put to bed with a bottle, or when a bottle is used as a pacifier for a fussy baby. The sugary liquids pool around the teeth while the child sleeps. Bacteria in the mouth use these sugars as food and produce acids that attack the teeth. After multiple attacks, the teeth can decay.
Infants should finish their bedtime and naptime bottles before going to bed.
Brought to you by the 600 members of the West Michigan District Dental Society in
