Pregnancy and Oral Health
Improving expectant mothers’ oral health is one approach to lower the incidence of dental cavities in infants. Pregnancy may make women more prone to periodontal (gum) disease and cavities, according to research. Oral health is an essential component of maternal prenatal care since poor oral care throughout pregnancy has been linked to poor infant outcomes.
Pregnancy and Periodontal Disease
Gingivitis affects more than half of all pregnant women. It is an early stage of periodontal disease in which the gums become red and painful from inflammation that may be enhanced by pregnancy hormones. If gingivitis isn’t treated, the bone that supports the teeth can be destroyed, and the gums can get infected.
Teeth with little bone support may eventually become loose and need to be removed. Poor pregnancy outcomes including preterm birth and low birth weight have been linked to periodontitis. However, how periodontitis may lead to adverse pregnancy outcomes is not yet fully known or understood.
Note: Dental treatment is perfectly safe and necessary throughout pregnancy.
Pregnancy and Dental Cavities
Pregnant women are vulnerable to cavities due to changes in behaviors, such as eating patterns. Women who have a lot of cavity-causing germs during pregnancy and after childbirth might pass that bacteria on to their child through their mouths (kisses or shared food) or a shared soother (how often do you see a mom put it in her own mouth prior to inserting in the infant’s?).
Early contact with these organisms, as well as other sugars gained through frequent snacking or taking a bottle to bed, can result in early childhood cavities and the need for extensive dental treatment at an early age.
- 1 in 4 women of childbearing age has untreated cavities.
- Children of mothers with severe untreated cavities or tooth loss are more than three times as likely to have cavities as those of other moms.
- Children with poor oral health are three times more likely to miss school due to dental discomfort.
Morning sickness and oral health
Morning sickness during pregnancy can expose your teeth to stomach acid and weaken the enamel of your teeth by demineralization. This increases the risk of tooth decay and erosion. If you vomit from morning sickness, there are three stages to follow:
- Rinse your mouth with water or a fluoride mouth rinse as soon after vomiting as possible.
- Allow your mouth to rest for at least 30 minutes after rinsing before eating or drinking anything.
- Brush your teeth.
Healthy eating
Maintaining a healthy diet is critical for your general health, pregnancy, and oral health. Follow Canada’s food guide for a healthy eating pattern to preserve your teeth strong and healthy throughout pregnancy.
Throughout pregnancy, you require several nutrients. To help guarantee a safe pregnancy, take a daily multivitamin that includes folic acid and iron.
Don’t Forget About Calcium
Calcium is a major element of your diet. It’s essential for healthy bones and teeth in babies. If you eat a lot of calcium-poor foods, your body will leach it from your bones and blood to nourish your baby. Don’t forget about calcium for your pregnancy and oral health.
Low blood calcium, in addition to low saliva calcium, indicates that you have hypocalcemia. When your tooth enamel has been demineralized by acids, calcium in your saliva aids in its remineralization. If needed, eat plenty of foods high in calcium, such as dairy products, and take a calcium supplement to guarantee that both you and your baby get enough calcium.
Choose healthy snacks
You can eat nutritious snacks between meals to fulfill your daily nutritional requirements. Soft, sweet, and sticky foods that are high in carbohydrates and sugar should be avoided. Dental plaque might develop as a result of these sorts of foods.
Talk With An Expert
If you have any questions about Pregnancy and Oral Health or if you want to talk with a dentist about something that concerns you, feel free to contact us today!
