The Impact of Pregnancy on Oral Health

The experience of pregnancy can drastically change a woman's oral health. Beyond the baby bump and some interesting cravings, an expecting mother may have more issues with their teeth than ever before. The changes to oral health during pregnancy may not be especially pleasant, but we’ll go over some steps you can take to minimize their effects.

Pregnancy Gingivitis and Hormones

Although pregnancy can be an exciting and hectic time, never let it get in the way of daily brushing and flossing. This is because the gums of pregnant women are especially vulnerable to gum disease; as many as two out of five pregnant women have it! Studies show that even prenatal periodontitis (which causes tender swollen gums) has been linked with premature delivery and lower birth weights. So, fight back by staying on top of daily flossing and using a soft-bristled toothbrush.

Morning Sickness and Enamel Erosion

One of the more common and well-known pregnancy symptoms is morning sickness. While this symptom is unpleasant enough to deal with on its own, it can have aggravating effects on our teeth. This is because tooth enamel is highly vulnerable to acid erosion, and frequent vomiting due to morning sickness will place the enamel in contact with many harmful stomach acids. A good way to minimize the effects of these acids is to swish with baking soda and water after experiencing morning sickness. However, make sure not to brush until after you’ve done this, or you could risk additional erosion.

Pyogenic Granuloma During Pregnancy

Some pregnant women develop raspberry-like gum tissue growths, called pyogenic granulomas, between their teeth. These growths are also known as “pregnancy tumors” and they typically appear in the second trimester, vanishing on their own after delivery. Although pyogenic granulomas are benign, they can be removed if they’re causing too much discomfort.

Nutrition and Dental Health (of Mom and Baby)

No matter the circumstances, dental health professionals always recommend consuming less sugar during pregnancy. This will go a long way towards protecting your teeth and gums, and focusing on consuming essential nutrients (like vitamins A, C, D, along with calcium, protein, and phosphorous) will greatly benefit the development of your baby’s teeth.

Visit Your Dentist in Colorado Springs

While it is important to maintain daily oral hygiene habits and healthy eating during pregnancy, it is equally as important to visit the dentist! Don’t forget to schedule regular dental appointments, especially if you have concerns regarding your teeth or gums. If it’s been a while since your last visit, make sure to schedule one with a Colorado Springs Dentist at Esthetic Family Dentistry today!