Oral Healthcare for Pregnant Women
Oral Health for Pregnant Women Women who are expecting the arrival of their newest family member can expect a whole lot of other things, especially with regards to their oral health. Pregnancy is an important time in a women’s life and in this duration they have to suffer from many hormonal changes which effects on different parts of the body, and the mouth is no exception.
Oral Health Issues in Pregnant Women It can trigger a number of changes in oral health, which include the following: Pregnancy Gingivitis Pregnancy Epulis Tooth decay Tooth sensitivity Mobile teeth Enamel Erosion Dry Mouth
Pregnancy Gingivitis: Gum disease is the most common oral health issue among pregnant women, and this is primarily due to the hormones associated with pregnancy. Pregnancy gingivitis is the inflammation of the gum tissue that commonly occurs – or worsens if the patient already has some form of gingivitis prior to pregnancy during the second trimester.
Pregnancy Epulis: Pregnancy epulis, otherwise known as pregnancy tumor or pyogenic granuloma, pertains to the localized enlargement of the gum tissue. It usually occurs during the second or third trimester, sometimes during the last month of pregnancy. It appears red, swollen and tends to bleed profusely even upon slight manipulation, though it is generally painless.
Tooth Decay: Tooth decay is also quite common, especially since pregnant women tend to have cravings for sweet treats yet limited attention to their oral hygiene. In addition, hormonal changes during pregnancy as well as vomiting due to morning sickness can also increase their risk for this dental problem.
Tooth Sensitivity: Frequent vomiting, in addition to tooth decay, may first and foremost lead to the erosion of the tooth enamel. Enamel dissolution exposes the dentin underneath, resulting in tooth sensitivity. This sensitivity is characterized by sharp pain and is triggered by cold, hot, sweet, and sour. Management is more medical than dental and involves prescription of antacids, anti-emetics, or a combination of both.
Mobile Teeth: Pregnant women can also experience loosening of their teeth due to advanced gum disease. It can also be due to increased levels of estrogen and progesterone directly affecting the supporting structures of the teeth.
Enamel Erosion: Morning sickness is a major symptom of pregnancy. Along with the nausea comes additional acid that, if left in your mouth, can erode your teeth. Be sure to rinse your mouth out with water or with a fluoride mouthwash to keep the acid level under control.
Dry Mouth: During pregnancy dry mouth can put women at a greater risk for problems such as tooth decay and infections. So, it is recommended to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and chew sugarless gum to enhance production of saliva.
Dental Treatment Considerations for Pregnant Women: Oral health is as important as your general health during this pregnancy, and your dentist can help you with any dental-related symptoms you might be experiencing. Below mention are the treatment considerations that they have to implement when handling pregnant patients Elective Dental Treatment. Emergency Dental Treatment. Timing of Dental Treatment. Dental X-rays.
What Can I Expect When I Visit My Dentist During My Pregnancy? During the first visit, be sure to let your dentist know you're pregnant. It's best to schedule your dental visit during the fourth to sixth month of your pregnancy. This is because the first three months of pregnancy are thought to be of greatest importance in your child's development. During the last trimester, stresses associated with dental visits can increase the incidence of prenatal complications.
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