Dental treatments in pregnancy

Pregnancy brings with it changes in both body and mind. These changes also affect the oral cavity. It is very important to know what dental problems a pregnant woman, as well as a new mother, may face. Depending on these, she will receive dental treatments to help her overcome them.

Many women still believe the myth that the mother loses a tooth during pregnancy or that the unborn baby "steals" the mother's calcium. A woman who wants to get pregnant does a set of tests beforehand. Unfortunately, most gynecologists do not refer her to a dentist to treat her dental problems. This should be included in the prenatal screening package.

Untreated dental problems, whatever their nature, can cause premature birth, but also health problems for the baby. It is therefore extremely important to have dental treatments before, during and after pregnancy. Also, the bacteria responsible for tooth decay and periodontal disease are easily transmitted from mother to child. Dental problems can worsen during pregnancy, either because treatment is avoided at an early stage or because of hormonal changes. There are studies that show that the immunity of a pregnant woman is lowered, which is why dental problems occur during pregnancy. Below, we present the most common dental problems that can occur during pregnancy.

 

Pregnancy gingivitis

 

It is one of the most common, about which countless articles have been written. It occurs as a result of a high amount of the hormone oestrogen, which causes the gums to redden and swell, leading to more difficult brushing, accumulation of plaque and tartar, and transformation into bacterial gingivitis. Pregnancy is not to blame for the development of gingivitis/marginal periodontitis, but it does make the gums more susceptible to bacterial attack.

 

Dental mobility

 

The cause of dental mobility is also related to the high amount of estrogen hormones, which cause a weakening of the periodontal ligaments. It is transitory and, after birth, things return to normal.

 

Tooth decay

 

Nausea and vomiting which can be accentuated by toothpaste, especially in the first trimester of pregnancy. Frequent vomiting can lead to demineralization of the teeth, which can easily turn into erosions or cavities. After vomiting, it is advisable to brush your teeth every 20 minutes. Poor dental hygiene leads to worsening or other dental problems.

It is recommended to use a toothpaste without taste and odor, but also without fluoride. Also, because of a high appetite for sweet foods, tooth decay may occur or existing cavities may worsen. Deep cavities can lead to toothache or tooth infection.

 

Changes in saliva quality and quantity

 

Xerostomia, or dry mouth, occurs especially in the first and third trimester of pregnancy. Sialorrhea - high saliva production, which can lead to a very high accumulation of bacterial plaque and, therefore, tartar. The change in saliva leads to a more rapid and greater accumulation of plaque.

 

Cold sores (thrush)

 

Canker sores are small ulcers, which appear mostly on the inside of the cheek and lip, on the tongue. They cause a burning sensation and pain. Treatment is strictly related to symptom relief, they pass by themselves in a maximum of two weeks. They are also caused by low immunity. They can be avoided by meticulous dental hygiene, a healthy diet and stopping smoking.

 

Halena (halitosis)

 

Halena (bad breath) can occur due to a large amount of plaque or deep cavities. It can also be due to mouth breathing or sinus problems. Mouth-breathing leads to dry mucous membranes and a favorable environment for bacteria to grow.

 

How to prevent dental problems in pregnancy

 

• Maintain rigorous oral hygiene including: dental floss, toothbrush + paste, mouthwash and mouthwash, plus tongue scraper;
• Try to eat a healthy, balanced diet based on fruit and vegetables;
• Give up smoking and carbonated drinks;
• Get regular check-ups during and after pregnancy;
• Go for regular scaling, once every 6 months or more often on your doctor's recommendation;
• Solve dental problems before pregnancy.