Pregnancy is an exciting time, but it’s also a time of hormonal changes which bring with it mood swings, tiredness, and — horror! — a higher risk of developing gum disease. Yes, pregnancy and oral disease are closely linked, and if you’re not careful about your oral care habits, your teeth just might suffer.
So how does pregnancy affect oral health?
1. Hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy can increase the risk of gum disease.
Hormonal changes during pregnancy can hinder the body’s normal response to bacteria. The hormone progesterone in particular can cause the gums to become inflamed, a condition known as pregnancy gingivitis. This inflammation can lead to red, swollen gums that bleed easily. If left untreated, it can progress into more advanced gingivitis or periodontitis.
2. The immune system is in constant flux during pregnancy.
Some parts of a pregnant woman’s immune system are enhanced while others are suppressed. This balance is necessary to protect both the mother and the baby, but it also makes the immune system work doubly hard and makes the mother more susceptible to certain infections.
3. Increased blood volume can also increase the risk of oral disease.
During pregnancy, women experience increased blood volume to bring extra blood flow to the uterus and other organs. Unfortunately, the increased blood flow can also lead to irritation, swelling, sensitivity, and inflammation of the gums, which can then make them more prone to infections.
4. Changes in dental hygiene habits can also increase the risk of oral disease during pregnancy.
Many women experience morning sickness and other digestive issues during pregnancy, which often lead to an increase in acid in the mouth that can erode the enamel on the teeth. Additionally, some women may have aversions to certain foods or toothpaste flavors during pregnancy, which may affect their dental hygiene habits.
5. Poor nutrition.
Since pregnancy can cause a change in a woman’s sense of taste or cause digestive issues, some women can’t eat as much or as properly as they should. Pregnant women who do not consume a healthy, balanced diet may be at an increased risk of developing dental problems as certain nutrients (such as calcium and vitamin D) are important for maintaining healthy teeth and gums.
6. Stress
While pregnancy can be a happy time, significant emotional and physical changes that come with pregnancy can trigger stress for some women. Physical and dental manifestations of stress may be a dry mouth, canker sores, or teeth grinding, all of which can contribute to the onset of gum disease or tooth decay.
How do you avoid dental problems during pregnancy?
While there is a link between pregnancy and oral disease, you can cut your risk by a significant percentage by seeing your dental professional regularly and following good oral hygiene practices. These include:
- Brushing at least twice a day and flossing once a day
- Rinsing out your mouth with water or a mouth rinse after a bout of vomiting
- Avoiding sugary snacks
- Eating a healthy and balanced diet
Don’t wait until signs of dental problems show up during your pregnancy.
Contact your dentist now and have your dental professional give you a thorough oral check-up. A healthy mouth can help you have a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby.
Call 541-708-6288 to set up a visit.
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