In Oral Health

Hormone changes during pregnancy do a lot more than affect your moods and cause you to have cravings. They can also cause damage to your mouth, like causing gum disease. This, in turn, can affect your baby’s size at birth and its chances of being premature.

Oral care becomes vital to your health management program when pregnant and should be high on the to-do list. It involves following a good oral hygiene programme, being alert to any changes in your mouth, and keeping in contact with your dentist. Also, as your trusted Port Coquitlam dentist, we’re committed to providing high-quality dental care personalized to your unique needs and goals.

What are the major risks?

Pregnancy Gingivitis is the most common gum problem, causing gums to become red and inflamed and possibly leading to bleeding if you aren’t careful when you brush your teeth. Many women get it at some stage during pregnancy, and usually, it will disappear within six months of birth if you are careful to maintain good oral hygiene. However, if it can lead to serious periodontal gum disease, so should be checked.

Pregnancy tumours usually only affect about one in 10 pregnant women. Benign and usually painless, these red or purple growths normally disappear after birth. They could become a problem if they start causing pain or bleeding. Then it might be necessary for them to be removed surgically.

Gingival enlargement is the most uncomfortable and disfiguring. Fortunately, it is also the least common.  The gums become larger and can overlap or even cover the teeth completely.

How you can help yourself

In addition to maintaining contact with your dentist, there are other things you can do yourself to make sure all’s well:

  • If morning sickness is a problem, be sure to rinse your mouth with water after vomiting, and consider changing your toothpaste for one with a fairly neutral taste in case your current one contributes to your feelings of nausea.
  • Brush for two minutes twice daily, using a soft brush and remembering to be gentle with your teeth. Don’t forget to floss.
  • Be alert for any changes in your mouth, particularly in your gums.
  • Follow a good diet. Avoid sugary and acidic foods, which contribute to acid build-up and tooth decay, and try to include dairy products like yogurt and cheese so the baby benefits from them while the bones, teeth and gums develop.

How your dentist can help

  • Don’t miss regular check-ups during pregnancy. They will enable your dentist to catch potential problems like gum disease early.
  • Tell your dentist you’re pregnant, and ask for advice regarding self-care, oral hygiene and any special precautions. Also, say what medications you currently take, including all prescription drugs, prenatal vitamins or other supplements. Also, tell your dentist about any medical conditions you have or specific medical advice your healthcare practitioner has given you.
  • Go ahead with any routine dental care your dentist recommends, but if you can, delay any elective procedures until after the baby is born. It’s also best to avoid dental X-Rays where possible, even though X-Rays are safer now than in the old days. If X-Rays can’t be delayed, rest assured your dentist will take special steps to ensure they won’t harm you or your unborn child, including ensuring your abdomen and thyroid are well shielded.

Schedule a Dental Cleaning

Don’t hesitate to schedule a dental cleaning today if you’re in Port Coquitlam, Coquitlam, or any surrounding area.

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