Dr. Puig: Your Teeth During Pregnancy

WHEN YOU ARE PREGNANT MORE CHANGES THAN JUST WHAT’S IN YOUR GROWING BELLY. When pregnant, women can experience more issues with gingivitis and gum problems. Because of the radical hormone changes, the reaction of your gums (and the potential for gingivitis) is exaggerated. In addition, gums can be more easily irritated, causing inflammation and/or bleeding.

Not only are there links between gum disease and premature/smaller babies, but pregnant women often have other oral health issues of their own during those important nine months.

Remember… although hormones change the outcome and increase the potential for problems, plaque is still the underlying cause of most gingivitis problems. That means maintaining your careful oral care can significantly reduce potential problems—and constant attention better insures a healthy mouth during your pregnancy.

So, what can you best do to keep your oral health, and your baby’s health, during pregnancy? Although you probably get it from your doctors already, we think it’s so important to eat healthy. Consuming foods high in sugar can cause plaque and gingivitis for anybody, but the effects can easily be exaggerated during pregnancy.

Because gingivitis and gum problems can be accelerated during pregnancy, it’s important to keep your scheduled dental checkups to be sure problems don’t arise. The very best time for these appointments is during your fourth thru sixth months of pregnancy. This window is an important time in the baby’s development. It is also advised to have dental visits before the last trimester, because of the added stress your body is already feeling at this time.

Everyone wants to stay healthy during their pregnancy to help ensure their baby’s health. Let us know if you have any concerns about your health during any part of your pregnancy. If you’d like to schedule a check-up let us know that you’re pregnant when you contact us so we can best assist you. Be comfortable in knowing that your oral health and your baby’s health are in the best hands.

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