February 01, 2010
Dental problems during pregnancy
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Old wives tales such as "pregnancy causes calcium depletion in mothers and dental treatment during pregnancy is dangerous" have been shown to be false. However there are some physiological and behavioural changes that cause problems with a womans dental health.
Decay. Snacking in-between meals, craving for sugary foods and a more acidic oral environment can increase the likelihood of decay. However it would need to be sustained for a long period of time to actually cause decay in a healthy individual. This can be solved by drinking tap water and brushing with a fluoridated toothpaste twice a day.
Bleeding gums. Due to the changes in hormones and a corresponding change in your bodies immune response there is an increase in your bodies response to bacteria. It is common from the 2nd month of pregnancy to the 8th month that there will be an increase in the amount of bleeding of the gums. To compensate a pregnant woman's oral hygiene must be excellent.
Periodontal Disease. There is evidence that a large number of women with pre-existing gum disease will have an increase in pocket depths(our measure for gum disease) during the course of pregnancy. Again excellent oral hygiene will combat this because if the bacteria are removed then the disease cannot progress.
Erosion. If a woman suffers from morning sickness for an extended period of time the constant presence of gastric acid in the mouth can lead to dissolution of tooth surfaces and progress of dental caries. Do not brush your teeth straight after vomiting but rinse your mouth out with water and even smear a little toothpaste around to reverse the effects of the acid.
Regular dental check ups before pregnancy are strongly recommended. Dental treatment is recommended during the 2nd and third trimester. Emergency dental treatment can be carried out at any time during pregnancy.
For further information please send your queries to advice@dentalcareproducts.com.au
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