
Risks in pregnancy over 35
23 June 2023
Stages of pregnancy, week by week
26 June 2023
Pregnancy predisposes women to many dental conditions. That is why it is recommended to visit the dentist during pregnancy, as well as to take good care of your teeth. To avoid risks and dental complications in pregnancy, find out what to do with Barza!
The dentist is the one who knows your medical history. That’s why he’s best placed to give you advice on caring for your teeth. At the same time, he knows which procedures are safe during pregnancy, for the mother and the baby.
Dental problems you may face in pregnancy
Although many women go through 9 months of pregnancy without developing any dental problems, there are certain problems that can occur during pregnancy. Here’s what they are!
Pregnancy gingivitis
It is manifested by inflammation of the gums, especially common in the first trimester of pregnancy. The condition develops due to the deposition of a bacterial layer on the gum tissue, sensitising it. The variation in hormone levels during pregnancy is at the root of the condition.
With gingivitis, the gums end up retaining and developing a lot of disease-causing bacteria. They can travel throughout the body via the bloodstream and, in some cases, even into the uterus.
High risk of tooth decay
In popular belief, it was said that for every pregnancy, a woman would lose at least one tooth. Many pregnant women are prone to tooth decay for a variety of real reasons that have nothing to do with this myth.
High carbohydrate intake during pregnancy, morning sickness that increases acidity in the mouth, nausea when brushing teeth and a high craving for sweets are just some of the factors that influence the development of dental problems.
Gum tumours
Improperly referred to as a tumour, this condition is an overgrowth of the gums and can lead to chewing difficulties, bleeding, sometimes local pain. They are benign and not cancerous formations.
Dental caries
In folklore, it was said that the baby was to blame for the appearance of caries, which “consumes” the calcium in the bones. Tooth decay can, however, occur during pregnancy, either due to eating sweets or postponing brushing.
Get informed so you don’t fall into the trap of myths!
Dental risks and complications in pregnancy: what to do
Regular tooth brushing and flossing – the main weapons in preventing infection – can prove problematic during pregnancy, especially because of morning sickness and increased gum sensitivity.
Specialists recommend using a toothbrush with finer bristles, a toothpaste that cleans but doesn’t have a strong taste, and rinsing the mouth with mouthwash. Dentists also advise mums who experience morning sickness not to brush their teeth immediately after an episode of vomiting.
Repeated reflux and vomiting damage tooth enamel, and the brushing action scratches and damages them. Brushing during pregnancy should be done with care, allowing plenty of time for this activity.
What to consider if you go to the dentist
Although there is no real basis for the argument that going to the dentist is a risk during pregnancy, it is important to inform your dentist that you are pregnant.
In this case, if you follow a certain treatment schedule, have a high-risk pregnancy or have certain health problems, your dentist may recommend postponing certain dental procedures until after your pregnancy.
This is related to dental X-rays which, during pregnancy, require extra caution. Also, the use of certain analgesics and anaesthetic drugs during dental procedures requires the consent of the obstetrician.
Follow the dental care protocol during pregnancy and everything will be fine! Also read this article on going to the dentist during pregnancy for more information on the subject.