Oral Health Problems During Pregnancy

Dr Darshan Brar (dentist)
8 years ago

Pregnant women are at high risk with dental problems. The latest survey of the Australian Dental Association (ADA) shows that 53 per cent of expectant mums are compromising their oral health by not visiting their dentist during pregnancy.

The data also shows that 38 per cent of pregnant women are suffering from a number of dental and oral health problems such as bleeding gums, inflammation, gum and tooth sensitivity. Moreover, three quarters of pregnant women are unaware that morning sickness can result in permanent tooth damage.

Dental visits are crucial for your health and that of your developing baby. A trip to the dentist can help prevent various problems. In addition, it’s safe to visit the dentist while pregnant, despite the myth that suggests otherwise. Dental professionals are trained to assess your condition before performing any procedure to ensure it’s perfectly safe for you.

Causes of Dental Problems

Dental problems occur during pregnancy due to the following causes:

Gum problems
Sweet food cravings
Retching while brushing teeth
Vomiting

The hormones associated with pregnancy can make some pregnant women at risk of gum problems, which include gingivitis (gum inflammation), untreated periodontal disease, and pregnancy epulis, a localised enlargement of the gum. During pregnancy, gum problems occur due to the lessened response to dental plaque caused by increased levels of hormones.

Food craving during pregnancy is normal. However, if you often crave for sugary foods, you only increase your risk of tooth decay. You can try to snack on foods that contain low amounts of sugar.

Vomiting associated with morning sickness can cover your teeth with strong stomach acids. Repeated vomiting and reflux can cause damages to tooth enamel and increases your risk of decay. Some pregnant women feel like retching every time they brush their teeth. However, if you avoid brushing your teeth, you are more susceptible to decay.

How to Prevent Oral Health Problems during Pregnancy

If you are planning on parenthood, also plan to have your teeth cleaned and any dental treatment done first.
If you are already pregnant, but not obviously so, make sure to tell your dentist before getting any procedures done.
Have a dental check-up at least once during pregnancy.
Improve your oral hygiene habits at home.
Increase your vitamin D and calcium intake during pregnancy.
If you experience any dental issue, see your dentist as soon as possible.

Healthy Pregnancy and Oral Health at Smile Line Dental

Observing proper dental care measures increases your chance of having a smoother pregnancy and a healthy baby. Give us a call to schedule your visit in Caroline Springs here at Smile Line Dental. We will look for any signs of infection and determine the treatment you need. Don’t let dental problems affect this very exciting moment in your life. Visit your dental care partners in Caroline Springs today!