Expecting a baby is an exciting time, but it can also be a little daunting. There are so many things to think about! One thing that is especially important for pregnant women to consider is dental care. It’s crucial to keep your teeth and gums healthy during pregnancy, as they can be affected by all the hormonal changes going on in your body. In this blog post, we will discuss dental care while you’re expecting, and what you can expect from Mountain Aire Dentistry.

What to Expect When You’re Expecting: Dental Care Edition

When you’re expecting, it’s important to make sure you are taking care of your teeth and gums. At Mountain Aire Dentistry, we provide comprehensive dental care for pregnant women. We understand that pregnancy can bring unique challenges with it, but our experienced dentists and hygienists know how to safely take care of your oral health during this time.

Oral health care, including having dental radiographs taken and being given local anesthesia, is safe at any point during pregnancy. Further, the American Dental Association and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) agree that emergency treatments, such as extractions, root canals or restorations can be safely performed during pregnancy and that delaying treatment may result in more complex problems

How Expecting a Baby Can Affect Dental Health

Pregnancy may make women more prone to periodontal (gum) disease and cavities.

Gum Disease

Nearly 60 to 75% of pregnant women have gingivitis, an early stage of periodontal disease that occurs when the gums become red and swollen from inflammation that may be aggravated by changing hormones during pregnancy. If gingivitis is not treated, the bone that supports the teeth can be lost, and the gums can become infected. Teeth with little bone support can become loose and may eventually have to be extracted. Periodontitis has also been associated with poor pregnancy outcomes, including preterm birth and low birth weight. However, how periodontitis may lead to adverse pregnancy outcomes is not yet fully understood.

Cavities

Pregnant women may also be at risk for cavities due to changes in behaviors, such as eating habits. Women who have a lot of cavity-causing bacteria during pregnancy and after delivery could transmit these bacteria from their mouth to the mouth of their baby. Early contact with these bacteria and to other sugars, such as from frequent snacking or taking a bottle to bed, can lead to early childhood cavities and the need for extensive dental care at a young age.

• 1 in 4 women of childbearing age have untreated cavities.
• Children of mothers who have high levels of untreated cavities or tooth loss are more than 3 times more likely to have cavities as a child.
• Children with poor oral health status are nearly 3 times more likely to miss school because of dental pain.

Tips for Dental Care During While Expecting

While pregnant, there are things that you can do to care for your teeth and gums throughout all three trimesters.

• Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste.
• Floss daily to help remove plaque from between the teeth, which brushing alone cannot do.
• Rinse with an antiseptic or fluoride mouth rinse.
• Avoid sugary snacks and drinks that can increase your risk of cavities.
• Visit your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.
• If you have any dental concerns or questions, make sure to let your dentist know so that they can provide the best care for you and your baby.

Mountain Aire Dentistry and Pregnancy

At Mountain Aire Dentistry, we understand the unique needs of pregnant women and strive to provide the best possible care. Our team of experienced dental professionals are dedicated to helping you maintain your oral health during pregnancy. Do you have questions about dental care and pregnancy? Don’t hesitate to contact us. We are here to help!