Oral health and pregnancy

During pregnancy it is important to have excellent oral health! One aspect of pregnancy that some women may not consider is dental care. It is important to have regular (possibly more frequent) professional oral health care during pregnancy. Research indicates that the health or the oral cavity (or lack of) can affect a growing fetus.

Follow these tips below for healthy teeth during pregnancy…

Poor Dental Health May Affect Your Delivery

Research shows that pregnant women who have or develop periodontal disease are up to five times more likely to have their baby preterm and low birth weight, than women who are healthy. Keep regular dental visits to prevent accumulation of bacterial plaque, tartar and stain which have the potential to cause gingivitis and periodontal disease.

Hormonal Changes Affect Your Gums

Oral health is an important consideration during pregnancy due to the rise and change in hormone levels. Your gum tissue becomes more sensitized to the normal flora (bacteria) that is present in the oral cavity and gingivitis or periodontal disease may commence.

Infant Dental Development

Fetal tooth development starts between the sixth to eighth week of pregnancy and continues throughout. At about the fourth month of gestation, a fetus’ teeth will start to mineralize and harden. It is imperative to eat a balanced diet full of vitamins and minerals for your infant’s teeth as some children’ may have a higher risk for certain tooth problems if the proper ratio of nutrients are not present during growth and formation.

When to have dental treatment done?

Dental hygiene appointments should be completed multiple times during pregnancy to ensure bacteria levels remain low and gum tissue stays healthy. If you require dental fillings, root canals or extractions, it is best to have them done in the second trimester when formation of the fetus is complete. Treating an infected tooth or teeth is imperative so as not to risk spread of infection or raising inflammation in the body.