Does oral health affect pregnancy? Yes. During the nine months of pregnancy, your body undergoes numerous changes. Your mouth, teeth, and gums may also be prone to issues when you are pregnant. Dental problems are a common occurrence in pregnant women. This may be due to several hormonal changes.
If you are pregnant, you have an increased chance of developing oral problems. There are serious complications due to oral issues. Babies born before 37 weeks of gestation may experience health complications. So, it is extremely important to keep a check on your dental hygiene. It is better to begin when you plan to conceive a baby.
How does oral health affect pregnancy & your mouth?
• Some women may experience cravings for certain foods and are likely to eat them more. Certain foods cause dental problems.
• You could be under the weather or simply exhausted from regular flossing or brushing your teeth twice.
• Nausea may also lead to oral problems.
What problems are caused?
Tooth decay
Pregnant women have cavities caused by bacteria. This bacteria may pass on to your baby and cause oral problems later. When you tell a dentist you are pregnant, they can take some protective measures to ensure the safety of your unborn child. Dental procedures performed here will not cause any damage to the unborn child.
Gingivitis
This is a condition that causes redness and inflammation of the gums. Gums feel sore and may bleed, even if you brush them gently. If not treated, gingivitis can lead to a disease called gum disease.
Gum disease
This condition is also known as periodontal disease, which is known to cause a severe infection of the gums and bones. This can also result in bacteria getting into the bloodstream, which is a very serious problem that needs to be addressed right away.
Dental tumors
These are harmless lumps that occur on the gums, between teeth due to the accumulation of plaque. These can be red and bleed at the slightest touch. These lumps go away after delivery on their own. Few cases in which they don’t go away, may need doctor’s intervention.
Loose teeth
Due to rising hormonal levels during pregnancy, bones and tissues supporting your teeth may loosen up for a short period, causing loose teeth.
Enamel erosion
Those who experience nausea may be affected with this condition. With continuous vomiting, your teeth come into contact with stomach acid and this acid harms the outer covering of the teeth, known as enamel. Tooth erosion mostly occurs during the first trimester.
