Pregnancy affects your body in many ways during the nine long months. 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 a number of hormonal changes.
If you are pregnant, you have an increased chance of developing oral problems. Certain oral issues are associated with complications such as preterm birth. Babies born before the completion of 37 weeks gestation, may develop health complications. So, it is extremely important to keep a check on your dental hygiene. It is better to begin when you start making plans to conceive a baby.
How pregnancy affects your mouth?
• Some women may experience cravings for some foods and are likely to eat them more. Certain foods are known to cause dental problems.
• You may not be feeling too well or simply exhausted to brush your teeth twice or floss regularly.
• Nausea may also lead to oral problems.
What problems are caused?
Tooth decay
Most pregnant women develop cavities, which are caused by bacteria. This bacteria may get passed on to your baby and cause oral problems later on. You may get them treated safely with a dentist. Dentists take some precautions when you tell them you are pregnant, to ensure your baby is safe. Know about what kind of dental work you can get done during pregnancy here.
Gingivitis
This is a condition which causes redness and inflammation of gums. Gums feel sore and may bleed, even if you brush them gently. If gingivitis is not treated, it may lead to a severe condition known as gum disease.
Gum disease
This condition is also known as periodontal disease, which is known to cause severe infection of gums and bones. This can further lead to bacteria entering the bloodstream, which is a very serious issue and needs to be dealt with immediately.
Dental tumors
These are harmless lumps that occur on the gums, between teeth due to 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.
