As part of your pre-pregnancy counseling, it is advised that you get a dental check-up and cleaning. Your mouth is linked to the rest of your body and harbors lots of bacteria. In order to make sure that you are in your best shape for pregnancy, your mouth needs to be in good health too. This is also a great time to follow through with any recommended dental treatment so that you do not have a dental emergency while you are pregnant. This places extra stress on you and your baby, so prevention is key.
Oh, the Hormones….
That’s right, ladies, the hormonal changes you are enduring are causing all kinds of symptoms throughout your body. If you are noticing that your gums are more sensitive, puffy or red while you are pregnant, you might have pregnancy-induced gingivitis. Pregnancy gingivitis is yet another “neat” side effect that can happen during pregnancy and typically appears in the second trimester. Because your estrogen and progesterone levels are high during pregnancy, this exaggerates the way your gums react to plaque and bacteria.
High levels of progesterone can increase the growth of gingivitis-causing bacteria. Although plaque is still the major cause, your immune system may be compromised during pregnancy making it easier for you to get gingivitis. So, make sure you practice good daily oral hygiene by brushing twice a day and flossing every day.
When is the best time to see the dentist while I’m pregnant, and why?
- The second trimester is the best time to have dental treatment if needed.
- The first trimester is not preferred because this is when your baby’s organs are developing.
- During the third trimester, your uterus becomes more sensitive to stress, which can lead to an increased risk of premature delivery.
- Regardless of which trimester you are in, urgent dental treatment should not wait! At Restore Dental, we will contact your OBGYN to clear the treatment and or medications needed to keep you and baby safe.
How do I take care of my teeth while I’m pregnant?
Visit your dentist for a checkup. Brush twice a day. Floss daily. Eat foods high in Calcium. Limit carbs and sweets. Stay hydrated to prevent dry mouth.