Pregnancy and Your Dental Health: What Every Mother-to-Be Should Know

If you are or have ever been pregnant, you know that those nine months leading up to the arrival of your baby are jam-packed with lots of health information and doctor appointments to monitor both your health and the healthy development of your baby.

While you ensure that you are taking your neonatal vitamins and eating balanced meals, make sure you also prioritize your oral health, says Ginger Rome, DDS, at The Dentists at North Cypress in Houston, Texas.

Oral health: More important during pregnancy

While it may seem odd to suggest that your oral health during pregnancy is more important than ever before, it’s true. And it’s not just about the Mom’s health. According to the US Centers for Disease Control, poor oral health during pregnancy can cause inadequate health outcomes for both the mother and the baby, including low birth weight and preterm birth.

Hormone fluctuations and gum disease

Not surprisingly, surges in hormone levels during pregnancy can impact your oral health, increasing the likelihood of developing gum disease. Remarkably, an estimated 60 to 75% of pregnant women have gingivitis, an early stage of gum disease.

Although less common, hormonal changes and plaque buildup can lead to non-malignant tumors on the gums, called pregnancy tumors. These red growths appear as a small raspberry on the gum tissue between the teeth. They generally appear during the second trimester and disappear after the baby is born. If you experience pregnancy tumors, contact us for a checkup and professional cleaning.

Increased risk of developing cavities

Similarly, the combination of acids from morning sickness, acid reflux or heartburn, and bacteria from plaque buildup or those sugar or carbohydrate cravings can create a perfect storm for the developing cavities.

If you suffer from morning sickness or digestive issues, resist the temptation of brushing your teeth immediately after vomiting. Instead, wait at least 30 to 60 minutes to prevent stomach acid from damaging your tooth enamel. Check with Dr. Rome. She may recommend a baking soda rinse to wash away excess acids.

The problem with carbs, sugary snacks, and drinks is that when combined with saliva in the mouth, the sugar can create bacteria, which can form plaque. But that’s not all. It also creates the acidity level in your mouth, which is the pH factor. If the pH factor drops below normal, it can damage dental enamel and lead to a cavity.

Stay vigilant with a home hygiene routine and regular visits

While it may be tempting to focus your energy on prenatal appointments and forgo your regular dental visits, staying committed to your at-home hygiene care and checkups benefits both you and your baby.

Did you know that a baby’s teeth form between the third and sixth months of pregnancy? Remarkably, at birth, all 20 primary (baby) teeth are already in place underneath the newborn’s gums.

Keep in mind that getting dental work or a professional cleaning while pregnant is safe, as are dental X-rays. According to the American Dental Association, the amount of radiation in a dental X-ray is extremely low and should not harm your child. In addition, as always, your dentist covers you with a lead apron to minimize exposure.

If you are pregnant and have concerns about your oral health, contact The Dentists at North Cypress for a consultation. You can schedule an appointment online or call us today.