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Teeth and Pregnancy

Pregnancy is accompanied by significant hormonal changes. In the oral cavity, these changes can make the gums more sensitive and more permeable to bacterial toxins from dental plaque. Changes in taste preferences may also lead to increased consumption of sweet and acidic foods.

The Negative Effects of Vomiting

Frequent gagging and vomiting can lower the pH in the mouth. An acidic environment causes demineralisation of the tooth enamel. It is therefore important to rinse your mouth thoroughly with water after each episode of vomiting.

For many pregnant women, oral hygiene may also deteriorate as a result of fatigue and nausea, which can sometimes be triggered by using a toothbrush. All of these factors can lead to an accumulation of dental plaque and microorganisms responsible for tooth decay and gum damage.

What Are the Most Common Dental Problems During Pregnancy?

The most common problem during pregnancy is gum inflammation (gingivitis). Its main symptom is bleeding gums when eating or brushing the teeth. Inflamed gums become red, swollen, smooth and shiny, and may sometimes be painful.

Gingivitis is particularly common in women who already had gum problems before becoming pregnant. If gum inflammation persists for a longer period, it can spread to the bone and supporting tissues around the teeth, resulting in periodontitis.

It is not true that dental problems are an inevitable part of pregnancy. The foundation of prevention is proper oral hygiene and regular preventive dental check-ups. During pregnancy, dental check-ups are recommended twice – once before the 20th week of pregnancy and again shortly before delivery – because a clean tooth is less likely to develop disease.

Start by Removing Tartar

It is advisable to have tartar removed as soon as possible, as plaque and bacteria accumulate more readily on its rough surface. Using toothpaste and mouthwash containing fluoride helps strengthen tooth enamel. Special mouth rinses designed to help prevent gum inflammation are also available. Limiting your intake of sweets is also important.

Sugar-free chewing gum after meals can also be helpful. If you wear removable dental prostheses, make sure they fit properly and do not irritate the gums. Smoking should be avoided completely.

You Can Also Influence Your Baby’s Dental Health

During pregnancy, the mother can also influence the development of her baby’s teeth. During the first trimester, the primitive oral cavity, the foundations of the jawbones and the developing tooth buds of some teeth begin to form in the foetus.

During the final trimester, the enamel of the primary teeth undergoes mineralisation and maturation. A healthy diet is therefore particularly important. Ensure an adequate intake of vitamins and minerals, especially calcium, fluoride and vitamins A, C and D, as well as B vitamins. Eat plenty of fruit, vegetables and wholegrain foods.

How Can a Healthy Diet Support Healthy Teeth?

Make sure you consume sufficient dairy products, chicken and fish. Medication taken during pregnancy can also affect the development of the baby’s teeth, so any medication should always be discussed with your doctor.

Source: http://www.osetrenizubu.cz/